Change Log 2009

Released 25 December 2008
This is a maintenance and feature release containing several bug fixes and optimizations as follows:

• Mac OS X Support
• Installable application bundle (openCPN,dmg).
• GNU/gcc compatible system build files.
• XCode project files.

Garmin USB GPS device support for Windows platforms.
Miscellaneous bug fixes and user optimizations.

Enjoy!

Dave and the OpenCPN Team

This is a maintenance and feature release containing several bug-fixes and optimizations as follows:

Improved S57 ENC symbology.
Increased compliance with IHO S52 specification for ENC charts.
Redesigned user data storage strategy, for easier maintenance.
Miscellaneous bug fixes and user optimizations.

Feedback solicited. Enjoy!

Released 20 April 2008
This is a maintenance release containing build improvements, bug fixes and optimizations.
Changes and improvements include:

• Mac OS X build support.
• Debian system package file download.
• Unicode support.
• Route/Mark Property sheets.
• Various display speed/quality optimizations.

Feedback solicited. Enjoy!

Released 02 January 2008
This is a maintenance release containing several bug fixes and optimizations as follows:

• Improved AIS symbology and diagnostics, including RateOfTurn indication.
• Improved toolbar icon symbology, supporting day/dusk/dark color schemes.
• Rationalized home directory selection for Windows, allowing program installation in arbitrary directory/folder.
• Improved accuracy of Great Circle distance/bearing calculations.
• Optimal Depth Units displayable on chart as embossed character image.
• Ownship position indicator on thumbnail charts accurately follow true GPS position.

Released 30 September 2009
This is a maintenance release containing the following enhancements:

1. Ship's position tracking function, with GPX export and import.
2. Enhanced icons and screen graphics for improved visibility.
3. Import and export of routes using GPX interface protocol.
4. Implement CM93 vector chart detail control slider.
5. Assorted usability and reliability improvements.

See the Changelog for full details.

OpenCPN Version 1.3.4 may be downloaded from the following link:
sourceforge/projects/opencpn

Thank you for your continued interest in OpenCPN.

Fair winds to all,
Dave and the OpenCPN development team

Released 10 July 2009
This is a maintenance release and contains numerous enhancements and bug fixes.

Highlights Include:

• Improved AIS target depiction and collision detection alerts.
• Hot keys and scroll mouse support.
• Help File.
• Various display speed and quality optimizations, especially for CM93 charts.

This release may be downloaded from the following link:
sourceforge/projects/opencpn

We thank you for your continued interest in OpenCPN and look forward to your comments and ideas.

Dave, and the OpenCPN authors

Released 05 May 2009
This is a major feature enhancement release adding the following new functions and features.

• CM93 worldwide vector chart support with automatic chart scaling.
• Improved AIS target tracking with configurable CPA/collision warning options.
• GPX compatible waypoint route exporting tools.
• Configurable range rings centered on ownship position.
• And, as usual, miscellaneous bug fixes and user optimizations.

Enjoy!

Dave and the OpenCPN Team

7/15/2009 1.3.3 Beta
Well, we are back into the Beta testing business.
I have posted a copy of opencpn Version 1.3.3 Beta to the following url.
opencpnbeta
The following updates may be tested:
1 Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

==========

New Beta 1.3.3 Build 716 7/17/2009

1. Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

12. Improve AIS CPA Alert graphics
13. Make Wheel-Zoom-to-cursor option configurable in Toolbox→Etc
14. Correct AIS Class B decoding.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 716———

============

7/28/2009
Download 1.3.3 Build 728 (Windows)from:
opencpnbeta
CVS at sourceforge also updated.

Total Changelog:

1. Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

12. Improve AIS CPA Alert graphics
13. Make Wheel-Zoom-to-cursor option configurable in Toolbox→Etc
14. Correct AIS Class B decoding.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 716———

15. Improve search for cm93 auxiliary dictionary files.
16. Improve Route and Waypoint graphics on GPX-In
17. Correct some CM93 chart detection algorithms.
18. Implement “Measure” Tool, experimental. Right-Click→“Measure…”
19. Change/simplify linux serial port detection logic.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 728———
Special requests:
1. Check out all those problematical CM93 spots.
2. Comments on Measure tool. I don't personally use this tool, so I need input.

CVS updated.
Comments:
1. Wheel zoom to cursor is now configurable in Toolbox→Etc. It should cause the cursor to jump to mid-screen, so that successive zoom-ins don't walk off the target. This works for Linux, but I can't seem to get it to work for XP under VirtualBox. Is this a VirtualBox bug? Please test.
2. Yet another debugging pass at the 8000 target AIS data stream…..

Sourceforge CVS is updated as well.

Comments:
I'm not sure if I like the “Wheel Zoom to cursor co-ordinates” feature.
Comments solicited…

===========
8/25/2009
Opencpn V1.3.3 Beta Build 825 is available.

Incremental changelog follows:

35. Correct problem with Route→Insert Waypoint…
36. Correct (yet again) pixel and Route calculations near Lon 0 and Lon 180
37. Handle segfault in GTK library code associated with CM93 region calculation,
38 Improve CM93 Chart outline rendering
39. Correct Current Index entries for US West Coast. Linux users need CVS update.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 825———

===========

8/25/2009
Opencpn V1.3.3 Beta Build 825 is available.

Incremental changelog follows:

35. Correct problem with Route→Insert Waypoint…
36. Correct (yet again) pixel and Route calculations near Lon 0 and Lon 180
37. Handle segfault in GTK library code associated with CM93 region calculation,
38 Improve CM93 Chart outline rendering
39. Correct Current Index entries for US West Coast. Linux users need CVS update.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 825———

==============

8/30/2009
Beta Build 830 is available now.

Changelog:
40. Correct Route Draw logic for segment with both waypoints off-screen.
41. Implement AIS target mouse rollover
42. Eliminate rendering of CM93 A-scale outlines
43. Correct ToolTip text for Scale-In/Scale-Out
44. Improve AIS Alert suppression logic.
45. Correct Track Rt-Click fault.
46. Correct “Wheel-zoom-to-cursor” chart stack update.
47. Implement HDT, HDG, and HDM NMEA Messages, and show Ownship heading.
48. Correct for modern (> 2.23) versions of gpsd speed reporting
49 Correct Wheel-zoom-to-cursor logic causing cursor jump.
50. Correct memory leak in Track draw
51. Correct Vector chart preview logic
52. Improve Status Bar font selection
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 830———

CVS current.

I hope for this to be the final Beta , and plan to release 1.3.4 this week.

========
9/19/2009
Final/final beta build 901 is now available

Changelog:
53. Correct Measure tool crash
54. Correct Object Query dialog, remove Cancel and Help buttons
55. Correct AIS Mouse crash
56. Implement Measure tool “On” by F4 keyboard shortcut, escape to cancel
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 901———

.================

9/11/2009
Build 911 of opencpn V 1.3.3 is available at the usual location

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
61. Improve NMEA message handler logic
62. Bypass rendering of WVS charts if scale is less than 5e-5 pix per meter (i.e. small scale, zoomed way out)
63. Implement new ownship icon, toolbox icons
64. Implement new arrow and pencil icons, Windows only
65. Correct Object Query initial scroll position
66. Correct Radar Range rings for skewed RNC's
67. Correct AIS logic for false alerts from targets reporting name before position, (rare, but statistically possible).
68. Implement scrolling Toolbox dialog for smaller screens.
69. Correct Routepoint property export/import.
70. Correct TrackDelete Logic while tracking is active.
71. Implement selectable fonts for AIS target query and Alert dialogs
72. Change (Improve?) Measure tool behavior
73. Correct DeleteAllRoutes logic with Tracking on.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 911———

CVS updated.

Comments:

63. Ship icon will be yellow if GPS data is unavailable, red if GPS is on and OK.

64: Sorry, new cursor art is unavailable on GTK (linux) platforms. wxWidgets only supports black and white cursors on GTK natively. May be possible with some more work. Low priority?

72. Changed Measure tool so that right click drop down menu for dismissal does not obscure the tool text, and stays with the pencil icon. No need to chase the cursor. Comments?

New news:
The Windows build was compiled with embedded debugging info, which should help us find the lingering crashes.
Here is how this works:

===============

9/18/2009
Opencpn v 1.3.3 Build 917 is available at the usual location.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
74. Correct Right-Click logic after DeleteAllRoutes
75. Correct Ship Draw logic for refresh box in Windows
76. Update Ownship icon shape/colors
77. Modify hotkeys for screen brightness and auto-follow toggles.
78. Modify ScaleIn/Out hotkeys to F7/F8
79. Correct Route→SendToGPS logic.
80. Implement CM93 chart zoom detail control slider.
81. Correct AIS Target Query dialog initial poition.
82. Re-enable GPSD input.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 917———

CVS updated

Notes:
77/78. Notice new hotkeys, described in ?→Help

80. This is new, and sorta cool. In Toolbox→VectorCharts, you will find a slider which sets the zoom detail for cm93 charts. This is in response for requests for more chart detail (larger scale cell) at any particular on-screen scale.

Positive values give more detail, but at a cost:
a. It simply takes longer to render larger scale charts covering more screen real estate.
b. There will be more instances of grey (NODATA) areas surrounding the larger scale charts as you zoom out. We don't quilt….
c. It can become dramatically slower if high detail is specified, and chart outlines are requested. In this case, we have to read a lot more cells to get their outlines.

Conversely, negative values give less detail. Zooms are faster.

Values may be user specified, so this stuff is under user control. I've been satisfied with the performance and detail at a level of +2.

=============

9/25/2009
opencpn V1.3.3 Build 925 is available at the usual location

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
83. Correct Tide/Current Right-Click crash
84. Correct crash on delete of last point of active route.
85. Correct Application/Frame Icon presentation
86. Improve nearby Routepoint calculation, now 8 pixels.
87. Implement cm93 zoom detail slidebar as floating dialog.
88. Correct DeleteAllRoutes logic for config file.
89. Correct Trackpoint XML time representation/decoding
90. Improve SENC creation progress dialog responsiveness.
91. Correct AIS target symbol heading for skewed charts.
92. Correct logic in SendToGPS for NMEA Data Source port.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 925———

Notes:
85. Frame icons and Alt-Tab on MSW should show good icon. Please check.

87. Try this. Right-click on CM93 chart. Select “Enable c93 Detail Slider” Performance/speed comments requested. I use +2 usually, but -2 if I want to browse the world.


==============

9/29/2009
opencpn V1.3.3 Build 929 is available at the usual location.

Changelog:
93. Implement SEH/Signal fault handler for CM93 renderer.
94. Correct anchored ownship heading on skewed charts.
95. Correct/Remove some invalid Current Reporting Stations
96. Correct (some) loss of hotkeys when cm93 slider is shown.
97. Correct georeferencing for RNC's which span the Intl. Date Line
98. Update GPX output format to Version 1.1
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 929———

This Beta is different in structure from previous versions.

It is a full Release, containing all the data files for tides/currents, ENC symbols, etc. It will, however, retain your current config settings and installed chart database.

=============

<alt2> Opencpn Version 1.3.4 was released on 30 September, 2009.

This is a maintenance release containing the following enhancements:

1. Ship's position tracking function, with GPX export and import. 2. Enhanced icons and screen graphics, for improved visibility. 3. Import and export of Routes using GPX interface protocol. 4. Implement CM93 vector chart detail control slider. 5. Assorted usability and reliability improvements.

See the Changelog for full details.

Opencpn Version 1.3.4 may be downloaded from the following link: https://sourceforge.net/projects/opencpn/

Thank you for your continued interest in opencpn.

Fair winds to all Dave and the opencpn development team </alt2>

================

11/18/2009
Version 1.3.5 Build 1118 is available now.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
24. Correct large memory leak when displaying GRIBs in MSW.
25. Correct crash on initial COM port error dialog in MSW.
—-Release Beta 1118—-

CVS updated and complete (I hope…)

==================

11/22/2009
opencpn Version 1.3.5 Beta Build 1122 is now available for download.

Changelog:
26. Correct RNC display spanning Longitude 0 (Greenwich)
27. Correct CM93 DISMAR (Distance mark) symbolization.
28. Correct error allowing two GRIB dialogs at one time, precluding consequent crash.
29. Correctly interpret /DTM on RNC chart header.
30. Correct RNC georef algorithms for REF points ⇐ 12
31. Correct small bug on RouteProperties page.
32. Improve GRIB Wind barb and iosbar drawing speed and efficiency.
33. Correct Unicode compile errors on vtg.cpp and gll.cpp.
34. Correct crash on GRIB directory change after showing valid GRIBs
35. On GRIB dialog open, pre-read at most 5 (five) most recent GRIB files to improve performance.
36. Allow GRIB files with no indicated file type extension, such as ““grb” or “bz2”.
37. Add Toolbar→GRIB checkbox option for Hi Definition graphics; Lo Definiton may be faster on some platforms…..
38. Increase (slightly) the fully zoomed out scale available for cm93 charts.
39. Correct GPX Track data structure and file format.
40. Add confirm message if GPX Export will overwrite an existing file.
41. In Toolbox→Etc, add option to “Preserve Scale” on chart switch.
—-Release Beta 1122—-

Notes:

37. Addresses some performance problems for dense GRIB files.
41. The overzoom discussion, and what to do when changing charts. Try this…

===================


12/10/2009
OpenCPN Version 1.3.5 Beta Build 1210 is available now.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
42. Implement Track Number scheme.
43. Correct minor ownship drawing errors near screen edge.
44. Correct trans-Pacific GRIB wind barb drawing
45. Correctly interpret GLL and VTG sentences which have NULL fields or invalid data.
46. Correct GRIB file sort logic
47. Correct crash on close Waypoint Properties dialog after deleting the displayed point.
48. Ditto for Routes and Tracks
49. Add ForceUpdate button to Toolbox→Charts.
50. Disable ToolBar on chart database update cycle.
51. On overzoomed CM93 charts, when ShowChartOutlines is OFF, show available larger scale chart outlines with dashed line.
52. Correct position and vertical scaling of Tide/Current window
53. Correct default size of GRIB Dialog
54. Make GRIB Dialog tracking text controls READ_ONLY.
54. Make Options→Charts selected directory text control READ_ONLY.
55. Prepare for International message support using gnu gettext method…More to come…
56. Implement NOAA WW3 Significant Wave Height/Wave Direction GRIB display.
57. Convert RouteProperties Distance calculations to traditional Mercator Sailing algorithm.
58. Add NMEA Data Monitor window.
59. Rebuild Toolbox with new tabs to provide more headroom…
60. Preserve Track On/Off state in config file.
61. Add defaults for track parameters to config file
62. Convert MSW builds to use dll C runtime libraries vs. static linked C-RTL.
—-Release Beta 1210—-

Notes:
49. Adding/deleting/changing of chart files will be detected automatically whenever you visit Toolbox→Charts, and the chart database will be updated as necessary. The “Force” button may go away as we gain more confidence in the auto-update methodology.
55. I will have more to say on this later. Sharpen up your translation skills….
56. New NOAA WW3 GRIB data type. Comments on UI welcome. Lots more GRIB data types in the world to decode, one by one….
59. Sorry, doc writers…. We needed a re-structuring here to allow space for more user options later.
62. In general, it is probably better policy to use a dll runtime model instead of a statically linked model.
Hopefully, MSW users will not notice any difference in installation or run-time behavior. This is a test….

This Beta version does not appear to incorporate a lot of user visible changes.
However, there are a number of internal structural changes which will make life easier for the developers moving forward. In particular, the chart database structure has been revamped for better modularity and performance. As a result, I would not be surprised if there are some regression problems in this version, i.e. some things that used to work are no longer working.
Please keep this in mind as you test.

And, we welcome a new Developer/Coder to the project. Much of the restructuring of the database code comes to us courtesy of
Mark Sikes (Psyches). Good stuff here, and more to come.

Thanks Mark, and welcome aboard.
=================
12/16/2009
Here is Version 1.3.5 Beta 1216.

Changelog:

63. Correct GRIB SIGHW tracking logic causing fault.
64. Implement transparency for some GRIB overlays.
65. Correct Database update logic for currently open or cached charts.
66. Improve HiDef GRIB Isobar rendering with splines.
67. Improve Mercator distance/direction algorithms.
68 Improve performance of chart database update cycle.
69. Correct UWRTOC symbolization rules
70. Correct cm93 crash above Latitude 80N/S
—-Release Beta 1216—-

Notes. Changes are minor and localized, with minimal regression risk. Famous last words….

We are ready to try some internationalization of embedded text strings.
Please see the new i18n thread on the forum for information.

We are coming down to the wire on test time for 1.3.6 Release candidate.
I plan to be substantially offline for a 3 month cruise starting in early Jan, 2010.

=================
12/22/2009

Here is opencpn Version 1.3.6 RTM

Changelog:
87. Change symbol for “UWTROC always dry” to same as “LNDARE as point feature”.
88. Correct database logic preventing multiple duplicate chart additions.
89. Correct keyboard control logic for manipulation of cm93 detail slider.
90. Correct GPX output format using xmlnspencpn extensions.
91. Arrange to start opencpn with last displayed chart, scale, and zoom.
92. Update Help file
—-Release 1.3.6—-

New Link
http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._136_setup.exe

CVS updated.

Notes:
Changes are small and localized, except….
90. Unavoidably large internal rework of GPX code to support maintenance and to ensure valid GPX I/O format. GPX users please test as fully as possible.

I have switched back to original Windows install .exe method. Reason: Vista will not install the 1.3.6 MSI version unless any current version of opencpn is removed first. Unfortunately, the 1.3.4 un-installer also removes and deletes the user data files, including config, SENCs, and all routes/tracks/waypoints. Not good. This fault has been corrected in the 1.3.6 un-installer, so we are free to move to the MSI method on the next production release if we desire.


=================
1/3/2010
Here is opencpn Version 1.3.6 RTM

Changelog:
87. Change symbol for “UWTROC always dry” to same as “LNDARE as point feature”.
88. Correct database logic preventing multiple duplicate chart additions.
89. Correct keyboard control logic for manipulation of cm93 detail slider.
90. Correct GPX output format using xmlnspencpn extensions.
91. Arrange to start opencpn with last displayed chart, scale, and zoom.
92. Update Help file
—-Release 1.3.6—-

New Link
http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._136_setup.exe

CVS updated.

Notes:
Changes are small and localized, except….
90. Unavoidably large internal rework of GPX code to support maintenance and to ensure valid GPX I/O format. GPX users please test as fully as possible.

I have switched back to original Windows install .exe method. Reason: Vista will not install the 1.3.6 MSI version unless any current version of opencpn is removed first. Unfortunately, the 1.3.4 un-installer also removes and deletes the user data files, including config, SENCs, and all routes/tracks/waypoints. Not good. This fault has been corrected in the 1.3.6 un-installer, so we are free to move to the MSI method on the next production release if we desire.

==========
3/28/2018
Here is OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta 328

Windows package:

http://www.southbaynetwork.com/opencpn/opencpn_210_setup.exe

2.1.0 Changelog

1. Rework Toolbar to allow improved dusk/night color control.
2. Correct chart directory fault for non-existent directories.
3. Add green conical(nun) buoy symbol to Presentation Library.
4. Improve dusk/night color schemes for controls and menus.
5. Correct flawed logic on chart dir scan after charts have been moved on disk.
6. Improve BSB chart georeferencing algorithms, accounting for projection type. Thanks, Marco…
7. Update chart database format to V1.6, including auto-update of previous versions.
8. Expand Right-Click context menus.
9. Correct Makefile.am to use $localedir variable for language file installations.
10. Implement Chart Quilting, F9 to toggle on/off.
11. Correct some CM93 cell offset calculations relative to WGS84.
12. Correct for upper/lower file naming conventions for charts, esp. cm93 dictionary
13. Improve accuracy of Distance/Bearing calculations for nearly E/W bearings.
14. Implement “Course-Up” Chart/Quilt rotation mode.
15. Improve AIS graphics, add AIS target type 21 (AtoN), add AIS toggle tool, etc. Thanks PjotrC.
16. Add simple auto logging function. Thanks PjotrC again.
17. Add optional Ships Bells sound. Thanks PjotrC.
18. Improve geodesic(Great Circle) calculations to account for elliptic earth model.
19. Correct fault in Route/EndRoute menu with empty route.
20. Correct chart startup ColorScheme as read from config file.
21. Improve RouteProp and GPX track import usability, thanks PjotrC
22. Correct wxSockets problem leading to poor performance or hangs with gpsd and S57 SENC creation.
23. Implement Anchor Watch, thanks PjotrC
24. Add Portugese translation, update Spanish translation.
25. Increase default MSW COMport numbers to 32, adjustable by configuration file.
26. Correct Makefile.am to honor –prefix option in configure.
27. Cleanup some source files to address licensing issues (georef.c)
28, Improve Track rendering, allow disjoint track import/export. Thanks PjotrC
29, Integrate RouteManagerDialog. Thanks, Anders.
Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 328

Notes:
Lots to talk about here.
Hopefully this new thread will pull together open discussions from a number of other threads in a trackable way.

Most of the changes you will recognize, or are self-evident.

6. BSB charts will use embedded georef polynomial equations if provided (BSB V3+). Otherwise, a stable low order polynomial derived from projections stated in BSB header is used, following the concepts developed by GPSMarco. Seems much better to me for Merc and TMerc charts I've tested. The code really cleaned up nicely….

7. Necessary for quilting. Update occurs when you visit Toolbox→Charts page the first time.

10. The big one. Quilting is expensive both in memory and cycles. I often see quilts composed of up to 12 charts, all of which need to be open and ready to render at the same time. Consequently, there are some subjective constants buried in the code relating to how soon (on a zoom-in, say) to begin rendering larger scale charts in the quilt. I have set the constants to roughly match the behavior of another ECS which I respect. We may need a slider control for this parameter in Release. It's all about performance. Also, note that we don't allow skewed charts (as seen in BSB/NOAA Region6 ICW, for instance) into the quilt. Deskewing these charts into a blittable format dynamically is unwieldy and slow. Also consistent with other ECS products. Finally, TMerc chart quilting is untested. I have not enough overlapping TMerc charts, I'm afraid.

14. Course Up Mode: This code uses a fixed 15 second COG averaging/update period for the rotation angle. A compromise, again relating to performance and screen jitter effects. This mode is only testable at sea or with a GPS simulator, obviously.
We need to add a compass rose graphic to the display to indicate North in this mode, I think. Contributors?

22. The recently discussed hang on SENC creation. Solved.

27. Relates to 18. New Geodesic calculations come from Proj4, license OK. Datum and other stuff from public domain sources. There are possible license exposures still. There is more work to do here if we want to use the external PROJ4 library for the various projections. Separate discussion is necessary for this whole issue as relates to debian compliance….

29. Integrated RouteManagerDialog substantially as provided, with tweaks from Psyches and me to support quilting. I've done minimal functional testing on this, but decided to include it in this Beta to consolidate the testing/review effort.

Wow….
This is a lot of new code. Much refactoring for quilting/rotation. Much new real code for georef algorithms, AIS, Routes, etc… Lots of contributed patches, all of which needed line-by-line merging with my new stuff.

Also, lots of the early comments and suggestions for improvements to 1.3.6 fell off the list. If your favorite idea/bug didn't make the list this time, I apologize. I'd be delighted to hear from you again, to keep it on the big ToDo list

I expect at least some regression problems with this code. That is, things that used to work are now broken, perhaps in ways that provoke crashes. Also, some new functions have not really been stretched very hard in my alpha testing.

But it does build and run, so we release early and often. There is no real substitute for the variety of environments seen in our test group.

A caveat is necessary.

If you use 1.3.6 for real at-sea navigating, I'd suggest you keep a clean copy of it available to use daily as we work through the first few Betas of 2.1.0. I do….

CVS and git….
This Beta will use the current CVS schema for two reasons:
1. Minimize the development deltas a bit, in order to reduce risk of total breakage.
2. I personally need time to learn git.
I expect to transition to git in the near future as time permits. Seems like a good thing….

===================
3/31/2010
OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta Build 331 is now available for download.

http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._210_setup.exe

Changelog:

30. Improve quilting algorithm and WVS background for alternate chart types, esp cm93.
31. Correct cm93 offsets for certain cells having multiple M_COVR regions.
32. Correct fault when deleting an active or current track.
33. Add RTOFS Current and Sea Temperature data to GRIB display.
34. Allow '=' key as substitute for '+' for Zoom-in.
35. Symbolize moored/anchored AIS targets with black ball.
36. Correct initial chart open scale to use last saved scale from config file.
37. Reduce cursor track timer interval for WXGTK builds to 2 msec.
38. Add Russian and Czech language support.
38, Correct crash on Track Delete with Track Properties dialog open.
39. Allow adjacent/coincident TrackPoint load from gpx file.

—-Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 331—-

This Build fixes several of the reported problems so far.

================

4/15/2010
opencpn 2.1.0 Beta 415 is ready for download.

http://www.southbaynetwork.com/opencpn/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
40. Improve quilt alogorithm for highly under-zoomed quilts.
41. Correct cm93 cell offset logic. Warning….
42. Correct Makefile.am for new language support.
43. Correct logic for Delete Active track with RouteManager control…again…
44. Correct Down-Arrow key behavior
45. Correct error on logfile rename if no logfile is present.
46. Correct crash on right-click in blank area of quilt.
47. Correct quilt logic to preclude reentrancy/recursion on SENC build.
48. Load Bells sound files on demand only.
49. Tidy up CVS files. Requires build procedure change….
50. Improve small scale viewport algorithms, especially cm93 and chart outlines.
51. Correct BSB chart bug concerning corrupt embedded line index on some charts.
52. Correct COG Up mode on MSW build
53. Modify RouteManagerDialog for basic functionality.
54. Move “DeleteAllRoutes/Tracks” from context menu to RouteManagerDialog
55. Correct for AIS target speed > 102.2 Kts.
56. Correct ASI Query dialog for case where erroneous AIS transponder reports MMSI=0.
57. If AIS port is “None”, do not show AIS tool in toolbar.
58. Implement ownship COG/SOG predictor length setting on Toolbox→Settings.
59. Implement basic quilting for cm93 charts.
60. Implement piotr's ideas for improved AIS icon visibility.
61. Implement AIS functionality recommendations regarding slow targets.


Notes:
CVS Updated.

41/59: Some F and G scale cm93 cells contain embedded offsets. These probably came from shifted datum on the original survey data. You can probe these by enabling M_COVR objects in Toolbox→VectorCharts→MarinersStandard→SelectAll, enable Meta objects, and then right click on cm93 chart and look at “coverage” item. Offsets are in attribute “wgsox, wgsoy”. Usually zero, sometimes not….

If we apply those offsets univerally, we get the offset problems noted in the previous Beta. If we do not apply the offsets, then some F and G cells are offset in the wrong direction. This becomes clear with quilting of cm93 (item 59).
What to do? We may have reached the ultimate level of accuracy of the cm93 dataset.
Check out your favorite large scale cm93 area, looking for offsets They will be obvious, on the order of hundreds of meters……
This is a real problem, since the affected cells are simply wrong, and potentially dangerous.
Ideas and screenshots encouraged.

53. RouteManagerDialog has basic functionality now. Could do more in this dialog. Ideas encouraged.

Known TODOs:

a. Quilt for TMerc: This needs some discussion. We cannot accurately include a TMerc chart in a Mercator quilt without a costly reprojection of the TMerc chart into Mercator. On the other hand, if all the charts in the quilt are TMerc, then we can build a reasonable TMerc quilt. This will be the case in some Scandinavian areas. This needs coding…
So, how do we handle the mixed-projection case? Ideas?

b. Will (Manimaul) is designing some new icons and UI elements which look to be an improvement in usability, and some sweet eye-candy. Requires some coding to implement, coming next….

c. We could use a “WayPointManagerDialog”, similar to the “RouteManagerDialog”. Code template is right there. Any takers?

d. Convert to cmake build process. In parallel development/test now. Thanks to sethdart. Will be implemented by next Beta.

Thanks in advance for the feedback

===================

2.1.0 Build 416 is ready for download.

Changelog:

62. Correct bug preventing AIS target display
63. Correct right-click hang in quilted mode.
64. Correct cm93 quilt bug on Windows
65. Correct S52 AP (Area Pattern) color logic on Windows build.
66. Correct Route import with co-incident points.
67. RouteManagerDialog: disallow activation of multiple routes.
68. RouteManagerDialog: disallow activation of tracks.
69. RouteManagerDialog: Correct eye icon display for Windows.

—-Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 416—-

=============

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta build 426 is ready for download and test.
http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._210_setup.exe

70. Correct for some poorly formed .kap files in quilt algorithm
71. Correct cm93 quilting logic around Longitude zero.
72. Implement Manimaul's new chartbar quilt control.(experimental, incomplete)
73. Update some strings for gettext() translation.
74. Another (simpler) take on the gtk GSocket compile problem.
75. Incorporate Pavel Kalian's new S52 rasterization rules and attribute definitions.
76. Continue cleaning up GPL licensing issues. (incomplete)
77. Correct to allow lower case scale characters in cm93 cell file names and directories.
78. Correct fault in linux printing…needs test in MSW
79. Remove the BigRedX, can re-enable by secret config option if you like it….
80. Add PiotrC ship's bell .WAV files, courtesy of Polish Radio Szczecin and friends. Thanks.
81. Correct lower status bar COG/SOG display to ”—–“ on lost GPS signal.
82. Correct cm93 quilt mode Object Query selection.

—-Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 426—-

Notes:
72, Big change in quilt control, courtesy the designs of Will (Manimaul) I'll let him explain these features. More coming….
75. Pavel made major enhancements to the S52 symbolization library. Lots of new symbols, especially useful in Europe. Simple things like green nun buoys, which are not found in North America, so were not in the rule set….. Thanks, Pavel!
78. Linux print…sigh… the code in previous Releases and Betas could never have worked. Works now for my linux. Needs testing in MSW.
80. WAV files for ships bells produced in a professional studio and donated to us. Read the README in sounds directory. These WAV files do not currently play in linux, and an error is logged. They need a slight format tweak, which is in process now. Work well on Windows, though. Thanks, Piotr!

Also, general improvements to quilting algorithm too numerous to mention. Performance improvements, mostly, and the odd crash fix.


====================

5/01/2010
OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta build 501 is ready for download and test.

Changelog:

83. Correct quilt reference scale calculations for some S57 ENCs, e.g Chicago area….
84. Correct logic error for NMEA $xxGLL sentences with no checksum appended.
85. Correct for crash after database rebuild in quilt mode.
86. Limit Zoom-in range to sensible value.
87. Correct Windows RouteManagerDialog display and sorting method.
88. Correct Windows ChartInfo Popup window text formatting.
89 Implement new quilting control algorithm
90. Correct ship's bell .wav files for linux application.



Notes:
89. New simplified hybrid quilting UI. It works like this:
a. Chart selector bar at bottom is familiar model, representing all charts in the database containing the center point (lat/lon) of the screen.
b. Choosing a chart on the bar (by clicking) builds a quilt with following properties:
The chart chosen, plus all charts of smaller scale of the same type, projection, and skew are shown in the quilt.
c. Right click menu on the bar allows excluding/including a particular chart from the quilt. Not currently saved in config…
d. Charts appearing in the quilt show brighter color bars, as with single chart mode, except there are several shown at once.
e. Note that a small scale chart in the bar may be available for the quilt, but be eclipsed by larger scale charts. In this case the brighter bar color may be confusing, since the chart is really not visible. We may need a special icon or color pattern to indicate this case.
f. As a consequence of this new algorithm, it is not possible to combine chart types (Raster/Vector/Cm93) on one quilt, with one useful exception.
g. Exception to (f). If the quilt does not cover all of the screen as composed, and cm93 charts are available, then cm93 will be used to fill out the uncovered region of the screen.
h. We have eliminated the Toolbox quilt chart type options and the viz/inviz “eye” icon.

One problem I have not quite worked out is this: US NOAA ENC's have the unfortunate property that small scale charts contain “holes” where larger scale charts are available. Have a look at Chicago in SCM. Problem: If the ViewPort center is not exactly within a particular large scale cell, then that cell is excluded from the quilt, leaving a hole in the smaller scale chart containing it. Not what we want. So, I coded a special case for S57ENC. I add to quilt all ENC cells which overlap the ViewPort in any way. I generally don't like special cases. They come back and bite later…

So, there we have it. Another UI concept to debate. I'm looking for something that is really new here, not a simple clone of other existing commercial products. Do try to keep an open mind on this, and feedback is very welcome here.

This is Version 2, after all….


Other notes:
TMerc Quilting: Still not right, but I have not given up yet…..
i18n: I have limited bandwidth, so am not incorporating incremental Beta Build .po files. Lets wait until we are about ready to release and update the .pot and .po/.mo all at once.

Release schedule: Target is June 1 for Version 2.1.0 release.


===================
3/05/2010
New code uploaded to CVS now. Corrections (hopefully) for some reported quilting bugs.

New quilt control symbology:
1. Eclipsed charts show an “eclipsed” control bar key.
2. Manually excluded charts show a closed dark “eye” symbol.

Will, I think we need another icon here, maybe a crossed out eye? I would rather not have an open eye for included charts, as this is the default. I think the control looks a little “busy” with all those eyes staring at me.

3. Right click on a chart brings context menu allowing exclusion of his particular chart under the cursor from the quilt.

Ptizef: Jean Pierre, I wonder about your performance issues. Is it in quilting only? BSB or cm93, or both? Have you tried Release build from VS tools? I find the Debug build can be slow, since it is un-optimized.

===============

5/14/2010

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta build 514 is ready for download and test.

(Well, not quite…The host for the Windows Setup Program Beta is not currently accepting my FTP upload, but we are working the problem…..
Source builders will be OK with CVS)

Changelog:


91. Update S52PLIB, thanks Pavel.
92. Correct FreeBSD compile issue with sigjmp_buf.
93. Change S52 Object rendering priorities to areas→lines→points
94. Correct logic for painting background of incomplete quilt.
95. AIS symbol update:
a. General alert: Some Target incursion.
b. Info suppressed on: 1) Suppress alert on moored/slow 2)Suppress display of slow/moored
96. Correct for reversal of some S52 features with “ORIENT” attribute.
97. Correct NMEA0183 parser to allow NMEA sentences without checksums to be processed and used for positioning.
98. Add logic to use internally calculated georef solution if BSB embedded solution is poor. cf NOAA 514_1.kap (Bering Strait)
99. Implement NMEA xxGSV Sentence, used for GPS status indicator.
100. (!) Implement Manimaul's new GPS and compass rose iconology. Thanks, Will.
101. Correct Tide/Current “Today/Tomorrow” tags. Thanks Cagney and nohal for the patches.
102. Implement automatic reference chart selection on quilt mode zoom operations.
103. Use hi definition graphics on chart rotate in course-up mode.
104. Add indicators to chart bar for skewed and TMerc charts.
105 Correct logic bug regarding Show ENC Text toolbar button in quilt mode.
106. Add Waypoint Description edit control to Mark Properties dialog

Notes:

Lots of refactoring of BSB chart rendering in this Beta , brought on by performance issues in quilting.
Bugs are expected….but I think we take two steps forward, and only one step backwards for this update.

99. MSW source builders will need to add gsv.cpp and gsv.hpp to their project files to complete a local build.

102: This is a recent request from Ptizef and others. It is an attempt to “just do the right thing” on chart zooming in quilt mode. There are some tweak parameters in the code that may need touchup. Comments appreciated.

Cagney's gtk region crash: Debug code is embedded in this Beta . opencpn will exit cleanly with interesting log entries on a potential region fault. Feedback please…

===============


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beat Build 520 is ready.

http://southbaynetwork.com/opencpn/o..._210_setup.exe

Changelog:
107. Correct logic for quilt zooming in a location with no charts available.
108. Correct RouteManagerDialog route-delete logic.
109. Correct Track and Grib toolbar icon selected state graphics.
110. Correct Compass Rose and GPS status icon locations on startup and resize.
111. Implement Route Leg course/distance display on right click of route segment.
112. Correct fault on DeleteAllTracks if track is active
113. Improve formatting of RouteProperties dialog.
114. Correct some DeleteAllRoutes logic with RouteProp and RouteManager open together
115. Correct logic on highlighting of marks in RouteProp dialog
116. Display tweak: If the only chart available on the chart bar is cm93, then do not highlite on rollover.
117. Implement chart depth unit display in quilt mode, if possible (i.e. all charts in quilt are same units)
118. Limit (again) the maximum underzoom of cm93 charts to accomodate large wide screens.
119. Correct fault found with missing config and chart database on initial startup.
120. Added indication of poor georef solution to chart info box.
121. Correct faults caused by excessive overzoom on some cm93 cells.
122. In Course-Up mode, implement one-shot timer for low definition rotation rendering on mouse pans.
123. Implement “OVERZOOM” indicator in quilt mode.
124. Correct cm93 symbolization of 2 way deep water routes.
125. Disallow quilting mode for all TMerc charts.
126. On sectored lights, allow cursor pick for object query only near light location, not on light sector.
127. Correct fault in closing RouteProperties with route externally deleted.
128. Correct Windows hang with multiple RouteProperties dialogs accessed.
129. Improve chart selection logic on quilt pan.
130. Correct Routemanagerdialog→ZoomTo for excessive overzoom.
131. Correct logic error concerning repeated zero length tracks.

—Release Beta 520—

Notes:

125. Sigh…We just can't make TMerc quilting work without re-projection to a common meridian, I think.

Known problems:

1. Course-up in quilting mode. Screen clips oddly….
2. Course-up performance in general is not great. Needs work…
3. Euro IENC overlayed ENC cells. Still researching this one. Problem: There is no (clear to me) indication
in the ENC file that this file is to be treated as an overlay.
Of course, we can think of ALL ENC cells as overlays, and bring them onto the screen by a transparent masked BLIT operation. This is very slow, and would affect every S57 ENC, IENC overlay or not.. Probably not a good idea. I resist the idea of an “IENC Mode Switch”. Still thinking on this…..
4. New Icons. In process…..

===================

CVS updated for Build 523a

Changelog (partial)

132. Correct Depth unit indicator in quilt mode.
133. Correct for chart skew values of both polarities.
134. Update chart info window for S57 ENCs.
135. Implement NMEA GGA sentence.
136. New Icons, thanks Will.
137. Correct quilt logic in Course-Up mode.
138. Correct StackUp/StackDown tool logic for quilting.
139. Correct for “Meters and decimeters” display
140. Correct RouteManager “To” field contents update.

Notes:

Especially interested in quilting anomalies, like Ptizef post #531.
Also, any “Fail to start” conditions, faults of any kind…..

135. Windows source builders will need to add gga.cpp and gga.hpp to VS project file. Testing of GGA sentence in real life would be good.

Real Beta maybe tomorrow….


==================

5/27/2010

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta Build 527a is ready for download:

Note the new link:
http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:

132. Correct Depth unit indicator in quilt mode.
133. Correct for chart skew values of both polarities.
134. Update chart info window for S57 ENCs.
135. Implement NMEA GGA sentence.
136. New Icons, thanks Will.
137. Correct quilt logic in Course-Up mode.
138. Correct StackUp/StackDown tool logic for quilting.
139. Correct for “Meters and decimeters” display
140. Correct RouteManager “To” field contents update.
141. Final icons
142. Add “Start/End” tags to GPX route/track output files
143. Save “viz/inviz” tag on GPX Routes and Tracks
144. Switch back to low definition on Course-Up chart rotation.
145. Implement CourseUp/NorthUp toggle by clicking on compass rose icon.
146. Implement support for newest gpsd library functions in linux builds.

—Release Beta 527a—

CVS updated.

Notes:

144. We needed to switch back to low-res rotation model for performance reasons, especially for toolbar access. This is an opportunity for improvement…..
145. Standard north-up icon is blue in color. Derived from the red icon. Course-up mode or skewed charts show the previous red icon, rotated appropriately. Clicking on the icon itself toggles between Course-up and North-up (or natural-up for skewed charts.)
146. Linux users now have the most modern gpsd libary support. If the library is available, the config process will detect it and link appropriately. Please test if you can. I think we will have some version dependency problems to iron out.

cmake: linux users are encouraged to move away from automake/autoconf tools and toward cmake. Auto-tool scripts will not be maintained on CVS after this release, and will be removed in due course.

i18n: Final .pot and .po files are available on CVS server. Please email your updates to me directly, email address in the toolbox→authors tab. I'll integrate is I get them checked in. With the new cmake process, I plan to remove the .mo files from the CVS server, since they are a make product.

debian: linux users are encouraged to build and test the .deb package from the cmake scripts. $make package I plan for this .deb package to be the one uploaded to sourceforge for general download on this release. I suspect there may be dependency problems yet on this……

========================

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC 604 is ready for download and test.

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
147. Correct recognition and minimal handling of Polyconic charts.
148. Handle NMEA HDG message with no variation field.
149. Handle invalid data from libgps.
150. Handle old style GLL Sentences with 4 data fields.
151. Correct BSB rendering logic for auto-follow, quilted mode, in large scale.
152. Implement support for 9600 and 38400 baud GPS receivers. New ComboBox in Toolbox→GPS.
153. Correct ownship predictor rendering when ownship and predicted point are both offscreen.
154. Correct track logic to not add trackpoints in time mode if closer than .01 NM (~20 Metres)
156. Implement <alt-arrow> key viewport scrolling for 2 pixel resolution.
157. Add “LookAhead” mode for CourseUp displays when autofollowing.
158. On quilted S57 charts, Object Query info is now taken from largest scale chart at cursor..
159. Implement “GoTo Here” on right-click context menu.
160. Improve logic for selection of first destination RoutePoint on Route Activate.

—Release Beta 604—

CVS is updated.

Notes: This is a Release Candidate. Large bugs will of course be fixed. Small problems and feature additions may be deferred until the next maintenance release.

New .po files are requested from all translators. I think all messages are complete. .pot file available in CVS.

=========================

6/06/2010
OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC606a is ready for download

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

CVS updated.

Changelog:

161. Correct “LookAhead” logic.
162. Correct active/selected route draw logic
163. Correct NMEA RMC sentence magnetic variation parsing.
164. Correct some ENC SENC creation logic faults.
165. Correct for fault under windows after two exit icon clicks.
166. Correct BSB chart logic with DTM datum offsets.
167. Correct cm93 “Updated” value in chart info box.
168. Update “cursor” and “from ownship” fields in status bar periodically

—Release Beta 606—

Notes:

a. Very minor change in libgps support. This may still be a problem for some users.

Good Luck, and thanks again
Dave

=================


607a is ready for download

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog
169. Correct vector chart performance regression re:164
170. Correct georef for TMerc charts with DTM offsets

—Release Beta RC607a—

===================


Version 2.1.0 RC 611a is on CVS now.

Changelog:
171. Adjust dialogs for 800×600 screen size.
172. Improve Toolbox→Charts dialog, thanks to SethDart
173. Properly deselect routepoints after right click and no context action.
174. Set default trackpoint icon as “empty” on GPX Track Input
175. Correct COG averaging algorithm near North.
176. Add MOB button to Toolbar
177. Modify Windows UnInstaller to remove all configs, logs, SENCs, everything.
178. Partially correct for some poorly formed IENC charts.
—Release Beta RC611a—

Windows setup coming soon….Bandwidth limited here…

Notes:
178. Dutch IENCs do not crash, but some do not display well either. More work needed here, probably not happening for 2.1.0

Issues still open:

1. Garmin 126 Route upload. Requires “GRMN” bidirectional protocol? May not happen for 2.1.0

2. GPX I/O on ',' locales. Inconsistent results. Should be decimal ('.') only in GPX output, and GPX input should convert from decimal to proper locale. Please test if possible.


==================


RC611b is ready for download.


http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
179. Lock MOB waypoint
180. Add SethDart AIS target list.

—Release Beta RC611b—

CVS updated.

Notes:
1. GPX ',' and '.' problem resolved.

2. This is the last call for .po files. Really. Some uploaded .po files have had problems. Please check yours carefully. The latest French .po was corrupted, and could not be used….

3. Garmin GRMN protocol and Dutch IENC corrections are deferred until the next release.

I think this is the one!

Thanks for all your help and patience as we iron out these final knotty details.


=======================


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta RC613a is available


http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
181. Correct RouteManager Route Delete logic
182. Correct shared routepoint delete logic
183. Partially compensate for some IENC internal errors.
184. Re-allow quilting of Polyconic charts.
185. Implement sound alarm for Anchor Watch excursion.

—Release Beta RC613b—

CVS updated.

Notes:
184. After some testing, I re-enable polyconic quilting. It seems that for large scale polyconics charts, it works well enough to simply consider them to be Mercator-ish. The quilt auto-scale algorithm seems to prvent highly mismatched quilts. However, I left in the note about poor chart accuracy in the info box, just for good practice.

185. Thanks to Cagney for the patch. Please note that the sound emitted on Anchor Watch excursion/incursion is the same sound that is used for AIS alarms. We need a brand new dialog to select sounds, and better sound management entirely. But this will work for now.

Thanks, and good luck
Dave

====================


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC615a is ready.

Unfortunately, the opencpn.org site host is unable to accept uploads just now due to maintenance. I will try to get the Windows Setup binary uploaded as soon as the site allows.

CVS is updated.

Changelog:
186. Correct Single Chart Mode switch logic for chart type change.
187. Correct AIS COG line draw logic for case when target and CPA are both offscreen.
188. Tweak AIS Target list dialog
189. Include Nohal's latest S52 PLIB symbolization rule set.
190. Modify AnchorWatch to allow setting watch for any waypoint closer than 0.5NM from ownship.
191. Modify About→Help to access help_en_US.html , help_de_DE.html , etc. depending on system locale.
192. Change locale loading location, adjust Windows Setup Application to suit.
193. Allow Lookahead Mode in north-up orientation
194. Fix a couple of Route/Waypoint delete bugs.

Notes:
191. Using the new scheme documented elsewhere. The help_en_US.html included in the Beta is old, and comes from the 1.3.6 Wiki. It is just for testing. If any testers can hack up a localized html of any sort in order to test the search logic, that would be good. An example could be called help_fr_FR.html , etc….. and placed in the doc directory.

192. This is thanks to a tip from SethDart. Regularizes Windows and linux builds. Better…..

193. Big Duhhhh here. Why didn't I think of that?

I'm off to sea for 2 days….

Good Luck.
Dave

========================


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC615a is ready.

Unfortunately, the opencpn.org site host is unable to accept uploads just now due to maintenance. I will try to get the Windows Setup binary uploaded as soon as the site allows.

CVS is updated.

Changelog:
186. Correct Single Chart Mode switch logic for chart type change.
187. Correct AIS COG line draw logic for case when target and CPA are both offscreen.
188. Tweak AIS Target list dialog
189. Include Nohal's latest S52 PLIB symbolization rule set.
190. Modify AnchorWatch to allow setting watch for any waypoint closer than 0.5NM from ownship.
191. Modify About→Help to access help_en_US.html , help_de_DE.html , etc. depending on system locale.
192. Change locale loading location, adjust Windows Setup Application to suit.
193. Allow Lookahead Mode in north-up orientation
194. Fix a couple of Route/Waypoint delete bugs.

Notes:
191. Using the new scheme documented elsewhere. The help_en_US.html included in the Beta is old, and comes from the 1.3.6 Wiki. It is just for testing. If any testers can hack up a localized html of any sort in order to test the search logic, that would be good. An example could be called help_fr_FR.html , etc….. and placed in the doc directory.

192. This is thanks to a tip from SethDart. Regularizes Windows and linux builds. Better…..

193. Big Duhhhh here. Why didn't I think of that?

I'm off to sea for 2 days….

Good Luck.
Dave

========================


RC611b is ready for download.


http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
179. Lock MOB waypoint
180. Add SethDart AIS target list.

—Release Beta RC611b—

CVS updated.

Notes:
1. GPX ',' and '.' problem resolved.

2. This is the last call for .po files. Really. Some uploaded .po files have had problems. Please check yours carefully. The latest French .po was corrupted, and could not be used….

3. Garmin GRMN protocol and Dutch IENC corrections are deferred until the next release.

I think this is the one!
=========================

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta Build 620 is available for download.

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
195. Save and restore AnchorWatch state on application shutdown and startup
196. Preclude potential div0 in AIS target CPA calculation.
197. Correct LookAhead coordinate logic for high latitude
198. Correct Route Render and Selection logic for common point routes.
199. Add install options to Windows installer.
200. Improve cm93 larger scale cell outline rendering logic
201. Completely remove Automake/Autoconf toolchain from CVS
202. Correct (some) Vector chart object query attribute units.

—Release Beta 620—


Notes:
1. I think (again) that this is a good release, except for embedded help file which has not been pulled yet. We'll see.

2. I have been mostly ignoring suggestions and patches this week that add functionality or change dialogs. Not even adding them to the TODO list. But I see some good ideas out there.

We'll start over on the patch integration after this version settles and releases. It is time…..

Thanks, and good luck

Dave

=================

6/23/2010
Opencpn Version 2.1.0 Build 623 is up.

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/op...623-1_i386.deb


Changelog:
203. Improve cm93 quilting for sparsely covered areas.
204. Correct bug for BSB charts with UNKNOWN projection.
205. Correct display property updates after Toolbox→VectorChart changes.
206. Improve CrossTrackError (XTE) calculation.

—Release Beta 623—

Notes:
1. en_US help file included, as a snapshot of the Wiki. Incomplete, many errors and external links, but it is what it is….

2. I plan to update the version number and release this to sourceforge tomorrow (24 June) as the official Release.

3. I will accept last minute .po files until 1800 Z tomorrow.

4. Of course, if we find an immediate Dead On Arrival type of bug, all plans change…. Fingers crossed?

Thanks
Dave

=========================

==========================================
This one works for me.
Bdbcat + Beta Search
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/search.php?searchid=13952385

The search I had that works.
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/search.php?searchid=13951983&pp=25&page=20
This might get a bunch of them. - Any on bigdumboat website maybe?

Have done from 7/15/2009 - 6/23/2010


===========

7/15/2009 1.3.3 Beta
Well, we are back into the Beta testing business.
I have posted a copy of opencpn Version 1.3.3 Beta to the following url.
opencpnbeta
The following updates may be tested:
1 Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

==========

New Beta 1.3.3 Build 716 7/17/2009

1. Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

12. Improve AIS CPA Alert graphics
13. Make Wheel-Zoom-to-cursor option configurable in Toolbox→Etc
14. Correct AIS Class B decoding.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 716———

============

7/28/2009
Download 1.3.3 Build 728 (Windows)from:
opencpnbeta
CVS at sourceforge also updated.

Total Changelog:

1. Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

12. Improve AIS CPA Alert graphics
13. Make Wheel-Zoom-to-cursor option configurable in Toolbox→Etc
14. Correct AIS Class B decoding.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 716———

15. Improve search for cm93 auxiliary dictionary files.
16. Improve Route and Waypoint graphics on GPX-In
17. Correct some CM93 chart detection algorithms.
18. Implement “Measure” Tool, experimental. Right-Click→“Measure…”
19. Change/simplify linux serial port detection logic.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 728———
Special requests:
1. Check out all those problematical CM93 spots.
2. Comments on Measure tool. I don't personally use this tool, so I need input.

CVS updated.
Comments:
1. Wheel zoom to cursor is now configurable in Toolbox→Etc. It should cause the cursor to jump to mid-screen, so that successive zoom-ins don't walk off the target. This works for Linux, but I can't seem to get it to work for XP under VirtualBox. Is this a VirtualBox bug? Please test.
2. Yet another debugging pass at the 8000 target AIS data stream…..

Sourceforge CVS is updated as well.

Comments:
I'm not sure if I like the “Wheel Zoom to cursor co-ordinates” feature.
Comments solicited…

===========
8/25/2009
Opencpn V1.3.3 Beta Build 825 is available.

Incremental changelog follows:

35. Correct problem with Route→Insert Waypoint…
36. Correct (yet again) pixel and Route calculations near Lon 0 and Lon 180
37. Handle segfault in GTK library code associated with CM93 region calculation,
38 Improve CM93 Chart outline rendering
39. Correct Current Index entries for US West Coast. Linux users need CVS update.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 825———

===========

8/25/2009
Opencpn V1.3.3 Beta Build 825 is available.

Incremental changelog follows:

35. Correct problem with Route→Insert Waypoint…
36. Correct (yet again) pixel and Route calculations near Lon 0 and Lon 180
37. Handle segfault in GTK library code associated with CM93 region calculation,
38 Improve CM93 Chart outline rendering
39. Correct Current Index entries for US West Coast. Linux users need CVS update.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 825———

==============

8/30/2009
Beta Build 830 is available now.

Changelog:
40. Correct Route Draw logic for segment with both waypoints off-screen.
41. Implement AIS target mouse rollover
42. Eliminate rendering of CM93 A-scale outlines
43. Correct ToolTip text for Scale-In/Scale-Out
44. Improve AIS Alert suppression logic.
45. Correct Track Rt-Click fault.
46. Correct “Wheel-zoom-to-cursor” chart stack update.
47. Implement HDT, HDG, and HDM NMEA Messages, and show Ownship heading.
48. Correct for modern (> 2.23) versions of gpsd speed reporting
49 Correct Wheel-zoom-to-cursor logic causing cursor jump.
50. Correct memory leak in Track draw
51. Correct Vector chart preview logic
52. Improve Status Bar font selection
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 830———

CVS current.

I hope for this to be the final Beta , and plan to release 1.3.4 this week.

========
9/19/2009
Final/final beta build 901 is now available

Changelog:
53. Correct Measure tool crash
54. Correct Object Query dialog, remove Cancel and Help buttons
55. Correct AIS Mouse crash
56. Implement Measure tool “On” by F4 keyboard shortcut, escape to cancel
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 901———

.================

9/11/2009
Build 911 of opencpn V 1.3.3 is available at the usual location

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
61. Improve NMEA message handler logic
62. Bypass rendering of WVS charts if scale is less than 5e-5 pix per meter (i.e. small scale, zoomed way out)
63. Implement new ownship icon, toolbox icons
64. Implement new arrow and pencil icons, Windows only
65. Correct Object Query initial scroll position
66. Correct Radar Range rings for skewed RNC's
67. Correct AIS logic for false alerts from targets reporting name before position, (rare, but statistically possible).
68. Implement scrolling Toolbox dialog for smaller screens.
69. Correct Routepoint property export/import.
70. Correct TrackDelete Logic while tracking is active.
71. Implement selectable fonts for AIS target query and Alert dialogs
72. Change (Improve?) Measure tool behavior
73. Correct DeleteAllRoutes logic with Tracking on.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 911———

CVS updated.

Comments:

63. Ship icon will be yellow if GPS data is unavailable, red if GPS is on and OK.

64: Sorry, new cursor art is unavailable on GTK (linux) platforms. wxWidgets only supports black and white cursors on GTK natively. May be possible with some more work. Low priority?

72. Changed Measure tool so that right click drop down menu for dismissal does not obscure the tool text, and stays with the pencil icon. No need to chase the cursor. Comments?

New news:
The Windows build was compiled with embedded debugging info, which should help us find the lingering crashes.
Here is how this works:

===============

9/18/2009
Opencpn v 1.3.3 Build 917 is available at the usual location.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
74. Correct Right-Click logic after DeleteAllRoutes
75. Correct Ship Draw logic for refresh box in Windows
76. Update Ownship icon shape/colors
77. Modify hotkeys for screen brightness and auto-follow toggles.
78. Modify ScaleIn/Out hotkeys to F7/F8
79. Correct Route→SendToGPS logic.
80. Implement CM93 chart zoom detail control slider.
81. Correct AIS Target Query dialog initial poition.
82. Re-enable GPSD input.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 917———

CVS updated

Notes:
77/78. Notice new hotkeys, described in ?→Help

80. This is new, and sorta cool. In Toolbox→VectorCharts, you will find a slider which sets the zoom detail for cm93 charts. This is in response for requests for more chart detail (larger scale cell) at any particular on-screen scale.

Positive values give more detail, but at a cost:
a. It simply takes longer to render larger scale charts covering more screen real estate.
b. There will be more instances of grey (NODATA) areas surrounding the larger scale charts as you zoom out. We don't quilt….
c. It can become dramatically slower if high detail is specified, and chart outlines are requested. In this case, we have to read a lot more cells to get their outlines.

Conversely, negative values give less detail. Zooms are faster.

Values may be user specified, so this stuff is under user control. I've been satisfied with the performance and detail at a level of +2.

=============

9/25/2009
opencpn V1.3.3 Build 925 is available at the usual location

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
83. Correct Tide/Current Right-Click crash
84. Correct crash on delete of last point of active route.
85. Correct Application/Frame Icon presentation
86. Improve nearby Routepoint calculation, now 8 pixels.
87. Implement cm93 zoom detail slidebar as floating dialog.
88. Correct DeleteAllRoutes logic for config file.
89. Correct Trackpoint XML time representation/decoding
90. Improve SENC creation progress dialog responsiveness.
91. Correct AIS target symbol heading for skewed charts.
92. Correct logic in SendToGPS for NMEA Data Source port.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 925———

Notes:
85. Frame icons and Alt-Tab on MSW should show good icon. Please check.

87. Try this. Right-click on CM93 chart. Select “Enable c93 Detail Slider” Performance/speed comments requested. I use +2 usually, but -2 if I want to browse the world.


==============

9/29/2009
opencpn V1.3.3 Build 929 is available at the usual location.

Changelog:
93. Implement SEH/Signal fault handler for CM93 renderer.
94. Correct anchored ownship heading on skewed charts.
95. Correct/Remove some invalid Current Reporting Stations
96. Correct (some) loss of hotkeys when cm93 slider is shown.
97. Correct georeferencing for RNC's which span the Intl. Date Line
98. Update GPX output format to Version 1.1
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 929———

This Beta is different in structure from previous versions.

It is a full Release, containing all the data files for tides/currents, ENC symbols, etc. It will, however, retain your current config settings and installed chart database.

=============

<alt2> Opencpn Version 1.3.4 was released on 30 September, 2009.

This is a maintenance release containing the following enhancements:

1. Ship's position tracking function, with GPX export and import. 2. Enhanced icons and screen graphics, for improved visibility. 3. Import and export of Routes using GPX interface protocol. 4. Implement CM93 vector chart detail control slider. 5. Assorted usability and reliability improvements.

See the Changelog for full details.

Opencpn Version 1.3.4 may be downloaded from the following link: https://sourceforge.net/projects/opencpn/

Thank you for your continued interest in opencpn.

Fair winds to all Dave and the opencpn development team </alt2>

================

11/18/2009
Version 1.3.5 Build 1118 is available now.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
24. Correct large memory leak when displaying GRIBs in MSW.
25. Correct crash on initial COM port error dialog in MSW.
—-Release Beta 1118—-

CVS updated and complete (I hope…)

==================

11/22/2009
opencpn Version 1.3.5 Beta Build 1122 is now available for download.

Changelog:
26. Correct RNC display spanning Longitude 0 (Greenwich)
27. Correct CM93 DISMAR (Distance mark) symbolization.
28. Correct error allowing two GRIB dialogs at one time, precluding consequent crash.
29. Correctly interpret /DTM on RNC chart header.
30. Correct RNC georef algorithms for REF points ⇐ 12
31. Correct small bug on RouteProperties page.
32. Improve GRIB Wind barb and iosbar drawing speed and efficiency.
33. Correct Unicode compile errors on vtg.cpp and gll.cpp.
34. Correct crash on GRIB directory change after showing valid GRIBs
35. On GRIB dialog open, pre-read at most 5 (five) most recent GRIB files to improve performance.
36. Allow GRIB files with no indicated file type extension, such as ”“grb” or “bz2”.
37. Add Toolbar→GRIB checkbox option for Hi Definition graphics; Lo Definiton may be faster on some platforms…..
38. Increase (slightly) the fully zoomed out scale available for cm93 charts.
39. Correct GPX Track data structure and file format.
40. Add confirm message if GPX Export will overwrite an existing file.
41. In Toolbox→Etc, add option to “Preserve Scale” on chart switch.
—-Release Beta 1122—-

Notes:

37. Addresses some performance problems for dense GRIB files.
41. The overzoom discussion, and what to do when changing charts. Try this…

===================


12/10/2009
OpenCPN Version 1.3.5 Beta Build 1210 is available now.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
42. Implement Track Number scheme.
43. Correct minor ownship drawing errors near screen edge.
44. Correct trans-Pacific GRIB wind barb drawing
45. Correctly interpret GLL and VTG sentences which have NULL fields or invalid data.
46. Correct GRIB file sort logic
47. Correct crash on close Waypoint Properties dialog after deleting the displayed point.
48. Ditto for Routes and Tracks
49. Add ForceUpdate button to Toolbox→Charts.
50. Disable ToolBar on chart database update cycle.
51. On overzoomed CM93 charts, when ShowChartOutlines is OFF, show available larger scale chart outlines with dashed line.
52. Correct position and vertical scaling of Tide/Current window
53. Correct default size of GRIB Dialog
54. Make GRIB Dialog tracking text controls READ_ONLY.
54. Make Options→Charts selected directory text control READ_ONLY.
55. Prepare for International message support using gnu gettext method…More to come…
56. Implement NOAA WW3 Significant Wave Height/Wave Direction GRIB display.
57. Convert RouteProperties Distance calculations to traditional Mercator Sailing algorithm.
58. Add NMEA Data Monitor window.
59. Rebuild Toolbox with new tabs to provide more headroom…
60. Preserve Track On/Off state in config file.
61. Add defaults for track parameters to config file
62. Convert MSW builds to use dll C runtime libraries vs. static linked C-RTL.
—-Release Beta 1210—-

Notes:
49. Adding/deleting/changing of chart files will be detected automatically whenever you visit Toolbox→Charts, and the chart database will be updated as necessary. The “Force” button may go away as we gain more confidence in the auto-update methodology.
55. I will have more to say on this later. Sharpen up your translation skills….
56. New NOAA WW3 GRIB data type. Comments on UI welcome. Lots more GRIB data types in the world to decode, one by one….
59. Sorry, doc writers…. We needed a re-structuring here to allow space for more user options later.
62. In general, it is probably better policy to use a dll runtime model instead of a statically linked model.
Hopefully, MSW users will not notice any difference in installation or run-time behavior. This is a test….

This Beta version does not appear to incorporate a lot of user visible changes.
However, there are a number of internal structural changes which will make life easier for the developers moving forward. In particular, the chart database structure has been revamped for better modularity and performance. As a result, I would not be surprised if there are some regression problems in this version, i.e. some things that used to work are no longer working.
Please keep this in mind as you test.

And, we welcome a new Developer/Coder to the project. Much of the restructuring of the database code comes to us courtesy of
Mark Sikes (Psyches). Good stuff here, and more to come.

Thanks Mark, and welcome aboard.
=================
12/16/2009
Here is Version 1.3.5 Beta 1216.

Changelog:

63. Correct GRIB SIGHW tracking logic causing fault.
64. Implement transparency for some GRIB overlays.
65. Correct Database update logic for currently open or cached charts.
66. Improve HiDef GRIB Isobar rendering with splines.
67. Improve Mercator distance/direction algorithms.
68 Improve performance of chart database update cycle.
69. Correct UWRTOC symbolization rules
70. Correct cm93 crash above Latitude 80N/S
—-Release Beta 1216—-

Notes. Changes are minor and localized, with minimal regression risk. Famous last words….

We are ready to try some internationalization of embedded text strings.
Please see the new i18n thread on the forum for information.

We are coming down to the wire on test time for 1.3.6 Release candidate.
I plan to be substantially offline for a 3 month cruise starting in early Jan, 2010.

=================
12/22/2009

Here is opencpn Version 1.3.6 RTM

Changelog:
87. Change symbol for “UWTROC always dry” to same as “LNDARE as point feature”.
88. Correct database logic preventing multiple duplicate chart additions.
89. Correct keyboard control logic for manipulation of cm93 detail slider.
90. Correct GPX output format using xmlnspencpn extensions.
91. Arrange to start opencpn with last displayed chart, scale, and zoom.
92. Update Help file
—-Release 1.3.6—-

New Link
http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._136_setup.exe

CVS updated.

Notes:
Changes are small and localized, except….
90. Unavoidably large internal rework of GPX code to support maintenance and to ensure valid GPX I/O format. GPX users please test as fully as possible.

I have switched back to original Windows install .exe method. Reason: Vista will not install the 1.3.6 MSI version unless any current version of opencpn is removed first. Unfortunately, the 1.3.4 un-installer also removes and deletes the user data files, including config, SENCs, and all routes/tracks/waypoints. Not good. This fault has been corrected in the 1.3.6 un-installer, so we are free to move to the MSI method on the next production release if we desire.


=================
1/3/2010
Here is opencpn Version 1.3.6 RTM

Changelog:
87. Change symbol for “UWTROC always dry” to same as “LNDARE as point feature”.
88. Correct database logic preventing multiple duplicate chart additions.
89. Correct keyboard control logic for manipulation of cm93 detail slider.
90. Correct GPX output format using xmlnspencpn extensions.
91. Arrange to start opencpn with last displayed chart, scale, and zoom.
92. Update Help file
—-Release 1.3.6—-

New Link
http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._136_setup.exe

CVS updated.

Notes:
Changes are small and localized, except….
90. Unavoidably large internal rework of GPX code to support maintenance and to ensure valid GPX I/O format. GPX users please test as fully as possible.

I have switched back to original Windows install .exe method. Reason: Vista will not install the 1.3.6 MSI version unless any current version of opencpn is removed first. Unfortunately, the 1.3.4 un-installer also removes and deletes the user data files, including config, SENCs, and all routes/tracks/waypoints. Not good. This fault has been corrected in the 1.3.6 un-installer, so we are free to move to the MSI method on the next production release if we desire.

==========
3/28/2018
Here is OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta 328

Windows package:

http://www.southbaynetwork.com/opencpn/opencpn_210_setup.exe

2.1.0 Changelog

1. Rework Toolbar to allow improved dusk/night color control.
2. Correct chart directory fault for non-existent directories.
3. Add green conical(nun) buoy symbol to Presentation Library.
4. Improve dusk/night color schemes for controls and menus.
5. Correct flawed logic on chart dir scan after charts have been moved on disk.
6. Improve BSB chart georeferencing algorithms, accounting for projection type. Thanks, Marco…
7. Update chart database format to V1.6, including auto-update of previous versions.
8. Expand Right-Click context menus.
9. Correct Makefile.am to use $localedir variable for language file installations.
10. Implement Chart Quilting, F9 to toggle on/off.
11. Correct some CM93 cell offset calculations relative to WGS84.
12. Correct for upper/lower file naming conventions for charts, esp. cm93 dictionary
13. Improve accuracy of Distance/Bearing calculations for nearly E/W bearings.
14. Implement “Course-Up” Chart/Quilt rotation mode.
15. Improve AIS graphics, add AIS target type 21 (AtoN), add AIS toggle tool, etc. Thanks PjotrC.
16. Add simple auto logging function. Thanks PjotrC again.
17. Add optional Ships Bells sound. Thanks PjotrC.
18. Improve geodesic(Great Circle) calculations to account for elliptic earth model.
19. Correct fault in Route/EndRoute menu with empty route.
20. Correct chart startup ColorScheme as read from config file.
21. Improve RouteProp and GPX track import usability, thanks PjotrC
22. Correct wxSockets problem leading to poor performance or hangs with gpsd and S57 SENC creation.
23. Implement Anchor Watch, thanks PjotrC
24. Add Portugese translation, update Spanish translation.
25. Increase default MSW COMport numbers to 32, adjustable by configuration file.
26. Correct Makefile.am to honor –prefix option in configure.
27. Cleanup some source files to address licensing issues (georef.c)
28, Improve Track rendering, allow disjoint track import/export. Thanks PjotrC
29, Integrate RouteManagerDialog. Thanks, Anders.
Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 328

Notes:
Lots to talk about here.
Hopefully this new thread will pull together open discussions from a number of other threads in a trackable way.

Most of the changes you will recognize, or are self-evident.

6. BSB charts will use embedded georef polynomial equations if provided (BSB V3+). Otherwise, a stable low order polynomial derived from projections stated in BSB header is used, following the concepts developed by GPSMarco. Seems much better to me for Merc and TMerc charts I've tested. The code really cleaned up nicely….

7. Necessary for quilting. Update occurs when you visit Toolbox→Charts page the first time.

10. The big one. Quilting is expensive both in memory and cycles. I often see quilts composed of up to 12 charts, all of which need to be open and ready to render at the same time. Consequently, there are some subjective constants buried in the code relating to how soon (on a zoom-in, say) to begin rendering larger scale charts in the quilt. I have set the constants to roughly match the behavior of another ECS which I respect. We may need a slider control for this parameter in Release. It's all about performance. Also, note that we don't allow skewed charts (as seen in BSB/NOAA Region6 ICW, for instance) into the quilt. Deskewing these charts into a blittable format dynamically is unwieldy and slow. Also consistent with other ECS products. Finally, TMerc chart quilting is untested. I have not enough overlapping TMerc charts, I'm afraid.

14. Course Up Mode: This code uses a fixed 15 second COG averaging/update period for the rotation angle. A compromise, again relating to performance and screen jitter effects. This mode is only testable at sea or with a GPS simulator, obviously.
We need to add a compass rose graphic to the display to indicate North in this mode, I think. Contributors?

22. The recently discussed hang on SENC creation. Solved.

27. Relates to 18. New Geodesic calculations come from Proj4, license OK. Datum and other stuff from public domain sources. There are possible license exposures still. There is more work to do here if we want to use the external PROJ4 library for the various projections. Separate discussion is necessary for this whole issue as relates to debian compliance….

29. Integrated RouteManagerDialog substantially as provided, with tweaks from Psyches and me to support quilting. I've done minimal functional testing on this, but decided to include it in this Beta to consolidate the testing/review effort.

Wow….
This is a lot of new code. Much refactoring for quilting/rotation. Much new real code for georef algorithms, AIS, Routes, etc… Lots of contributed patches, all of which needed line-by-line merging with my new stuff.

Also, lots of the early comments and suggestions for improvements to 1.3.6 fell off the list. If your favorite idea/bug didn't make the list this time, I apologize. I'd be delighted to hear from you again, to keep it on the big ToDo list

I expect at least some regression problems with this code. That is, things that used to work are now broken, perhaps in ways that provoke crashes. Also, some new functions have not really been stretched very hard in my alpha testing.

But it does build and run, so we release early and often. There is no real substitute for the variety of environments seen in our test group.

A caveat is necessary.

If you use 1.3.6 for real at-sea navigating, I'd suggest you keep a clean copy of it available to use daily as we work through the first few Betas of 2.1.0. I do….

CVS and git….
This Beta will use the current CVS schema for two reasons:
1. Minimize the development deltas a bit, in order to reduce risk of total breakage.
2. I personally need time to learn git.
I expect to transition to git in the near future as time permits. Seems like a good thing….

===================
3/31/2010
OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta Build 331 is now available for download.

http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._210_setup.exe

Changelog:

30. Improve quilting algorithm and WVS background for alternate chart types, esp cm93.
31. Correct cm93 offsets for certain cells having multiple M_COVR regions.
32. Correct fault when deleting an active or current track.
33. Add RTOFS Current and Sea Temperature data to GRIB display.
34. Allow '=' key as substitute for '+' for Zoom-in.
35. Symbolize moored/anchored AIS targets with black ball.
36. Correct initial chart open scale to use last saved scale from config file.
37. Reduce cursor track timer interval for WXGTK builds to 2 msec.
38. Add Russian and Czech language support.
38, Correct crash on Track Delete with Track Properties dialog open.
39. Allow adjacent/coincident TrackPoint load from gpx file.

—-Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 331—-

This Build fixes several of the reported problems so far.

================

4/15/2010
opencpn 2.1.0 Beta 415 is ready for download.

http://www.southbaynetwork.com/opencpn/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
40. Improve quilt alogorithm for highly under-zoomed quilts.
41. Correct cm93 cell offset logic. Warning….
42. Correct Makefile.am for new language support.
43. Correct logic for Delete Active track with RouteManager control…again…
44. Correct Down-Arrow key behavior
45. Correct error on logfile rename if no logfile is present.
46. Correct crash on right-click in blank area of quilt.
47. Correct quilt logic to preclude reentrancy/recursion on SENC build.
48. Load Bells sound files on demand only.
49. Tidy up CVS files. Requires build procedure change….
50. Improve small scale viewport algorithms, especially cm93 and chart outlines.
51. Correct BSB chart bug concerning corrupt embedded line index on some charts.
52. Correct COG Up mode on MSW build
53. Modify RouteManagerDialog for basic functionality.
54. Move “DeleteAllRoutes/Tracks” from context menu to RouteManagerDialog
55. Correct for AIS target speed > 102.2 Kts.
56. Correct ASI Query dialog for case where erroneous AIS transponder reports MMSI=0.
57. If AIS port is “None”, do not show AIS tool in toolbar.
58. Implement ownship COG/SOG predictor length setting on Toolbox→Settings.
59. Implement basic quilting for cm93 charts.
60. Implement piotr's ideas for improved AIS icon visibility.
61. Implement AIS functionality recommendations regarding slow targets.


Notes:
CVS Updated.

41/59: Some F and G scale cm93 cells contain embedded offsets. These probably came from shifted datum on the original survey data. You can probe these by enabling M_COVR objects in Toolbox→VectorCharts→MarinersStandard→SelectAll, enable Meta objects, and then right click on cm93 chart and look at “coverage” item. Offsets are in attribute “wgsox, wgsoy”. Usually zero, sometimes not….

If we apply those offsets univerally, we get the offset problems noted in the previous Beta. If we do not apply the offsets, then some F and G cells are offset in the wrong direction. This becomes clear with quilting of cm93 (item 59).
What to do? We may have reached the ultimate level of accuracy of the cm93 dataset.
Check out your favorite large scale cm93 area, looking for offsets They will be obvious, on the order of hundreds of meters……
This is a real problem, since the affected cells are simply wrong, and potentially dangerous.
Ideas and screenshots encouraged.

53. RouteManagerDialog has basic functionality now. Could do more in this dialog. Ideas encouraged.

Known TODOs:

a. Quilt for TMerc: This needs some discussion. We cannot accurately include a TMerc chart in a Mercator quilt without a costly reprojection of the TMerc chart into Mercator. On the other hand, if all the charts in the quilt are TMerc, then we can build a reasonable TMerc quilt. This will be the case in some Scandinavian areas. This needs coding…
So, how do we handle the mixed-projection case? Ideas?

b. Will (Manimaul) is designing some new icons and UI elements which look to be an improvement in usability, and some sweet eye-candy. Requires some coding to implement, coming next….

c. We could use a “WayPointManagerDialog”, similar to the “RouteManagerDialog”. Code template is right there. Any takers?

d. Convert to cmake build process. In parallel development/test now. Thanks to sethdart. Will be implemented by next Beta.

Thanks in advance for the feedback

===================

2.1.0 Build 416 is ready for download.

Changelog:

62. Correct bug preventing AIS target display
63. Correct right-click hang in quilted mode.
64. Correct cm93 quilt bug on Windows
65. Correct S52 AP (Area Pattern) color logic on Windows build.
66. Correct Route import with co-incident points.
67. RouteManagerDialog: disallow activation of multiple routes.
68. RouteManagerDialog: disallow activation of tracks.
69. RouteManagerDialog: Correct eye icon display for Windows.

—-Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 416—-

=============

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta build 426 is ready for download and test.
http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._210_setup.exe

70. Correct for some poorly formed .kap files in quilt algorithm
71. Correct cm93 quilting logic around Longitude zero.
72. Implement Manimaul's new chartbar quilt control.(experimental, incomplete)
73. Update some strings for gettext() translation.
74. Another (simpler) take on the gtk GSocket compile problem.
75. Incorporate Pavel Kalian's new S52 rasterization rules and attribute definitions.
76. Continue cleaning up GPL licensing issues. (incomplete)
77. Correct to allow lower case scale characters in cm93 cell file names and directories.
78. Correct fault in linux printing…needs test in MSW
79. Remove the BigRedX, can re-enable by secret config option if you like it….
80. Add PiotrC ship's bell .WAV files, courtesy of Polish Radio Szczecin and friends. Thanks.
81. Correct lower status bar COG/SOG display to “—–” on lost GPS signal.
82. Correct cm93 quilt mode Object Query selection.

—-Release Beta 2.1.0 Build 426—-

Notes:
72, Big change in quilt control, courtesy the designs of Will (Manimaul) I'll let him explain these features. More coming….
75. Pavel made major enhancements to the S52 symbolization library. Lots of new symbols, especially useful in Europe. Simple things like green nun buoys, which are not found in North America, so were not in the rule set….. Thanks, Pavel!
78. Linux print…sigh… the code in previous Releases and Betas could never have worked. Works now for my linux. Needs testing in MSW.
80. WAV files for ships bells produced in a professional studio and donated to us. Read the README in sounds directory. These WAV files do not currently play in linux, and an error is logged. They need a slight format tweak, which is in process now. Work well on Windows, though. Thanks, Piotr!

Also, general improvements to quilting algorithm too numerous to mention. Performance improvements, mostly, and the odd crash fix.


====================

5/01/2010
OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta build 501 is ready for download and test.

Changelog:

83. Correct quilt reference scale calculations for some S57 ENCs, e.g Chicago area….
84. Correct logic error for NMEA $xxGLL sentences with no checksum appended.
85. Correct for crash after database rebuild in quilt mode.
86. Limit Zoom-in range to sensible value.
87. Correct Windows RouteManagerDialog display and sorting method.
88. Correct Windows ChartInfo Popup window text formatting.
89 Implement new quilting control algorithm
90. Correct ship's bell .wav files for linux application.



Notes:
89. New simplified hybrid quilting UI. It works like this:
a. Chart selector bar at bottom is familiar model, representing all charts in the database containing the center point (lat/lon) of the screen.
b. Choosing a chart on the bar (by clicking) builds a quilt with following properties:
The chart chosen, plus all charts of smaller scale of the same type, projection, and skew are shown in the quilt.
c. Right click menu on the bar allows excluding/including a particular chart from the quilt. Not currently saved in config…
d. Charts appearing in the quilt show brighter color bars, as with single chart mode, except there are several shown at once.
e. Note that a small scale chart in the bar may be available for the quilt, but be eclipsed by larger scale charts. In this case the brighter bar color may be confusing, since the chart is really not visible. We may need a special icon or color pattern to indicate this case.
f. As a consequence of this new algorithm, it is not possible to combine chart types (Raster/Vector/Cm93) on one quilt, with one useful exception.
g. Exception to (f). If the quilt does not cover all of the screen as composed, and cm93 charts are available, then cm93 will be used to fill out the uncovered region of the screen.
h. We have eliminated the Toolbox quilt chart type options and the viz/inviz “eye” icon.

One problem I have not quite worked out is this: US NOAA ENC's have the unfortunate property that small scale charts contain “holes” where larger scale charts are available. Have a look at Chicago in SCM. Problem: If the ViewPort center is not exactly within a particular large scale cell, then that cell is excluded from the quilt, leaving a hole in the smaller scale chart containing it. Not what we want. So, I coded a special case for S57ENC. I add to quilt all ENC cells which overlap the ViewPort in any way. I generally don't like special cases. They come back and bite later…

So, there we have it. Another UI concept to debate. I'm looking for something that is really new here, not a simple clone of other existing commercial products. Do try to keep an open mind on this, and feedback is very welcome here.

This is Version 2, after all….


Other notes:
TMerc Quilting: Still not right, but I have not given up yet…..
i18n: I have limited bandwidth, so am not incorporating incremental Beta Build .po files. Lets wait until we are about ready to release and update the .pot and .po/.mo all at once.

Release schedule: Target is June 1 for Version 2.1.0 release.


===================
3/05/2010
New code uploaded to CVS now. Corrections (hopefully) for some reported quilting bugs.

New quilt control symbology:
1. Eclipsed charts show an “eclipsed” control bar key.
2. Manually excluded charts show a closed dark “eye” symbol.

Will, I think we need another icon here, maybe a crossed out eye? I would rather not have an open eye for included charts, as this is the default. I think the control looks a little “busy” with all those eyes staring at me.

3. Right click on a chart brings context menu allowing exclusion of his particular chart under the cursor from the quilt.

Ptizef: Jean Pierre, I wonder about your performance issues. Is it in quilting only? BSB or cm93, or both? Have you tried Release build from VS tools? I find the Debug build can be slow, since it is un-optimized.

===============

5/14/2010

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta build 514 is ready for download and test.

(Well, not quite…The host for the Windows Setup Program Beta is not currently accepting my FTP upload, but we are working the problem…..
Source builders will be OK with CVS)

Changelog:


91. Update S52PLIB, thanks Pavel.
92. Correct FreeBSD compile issue with sigjmp_buf.
93. Change S52 Object rendering priorities to areas→lines→points
94. Correct logic for painting background of incomplete quilt.
95. AIS symbol update:
a. General alert: Some Target incursion.
b. Info suppressed on: 1) Suppress alert on moored/slow 2)Suppress display of slow/moored
96. Correct for reversal of some S52 features with “ORIENT” attribute.
97. Correct NMEA0183 parser to allow NMEA sentences without checksums to be processed and used for positioning.
98. Add logic to use internally calculated georef solution if BSB embedded solution is poor. cf NOAA 514_1.kap (Bering Strait)
99. Implement NMEA xxGSV Sentence, used for GPS status indicator.
100. (!) Implement Manimaul's new GPS and compass rose iconology. Thanks, Will.
101. Correct Tide/Current “Today/Tomorrow” tags. Thanks Cagney and nohal for the patches.
102. Implement automatic reference chart selection on quilt mode zoom operations.
103. Use hi definition graphics on chart rotate in course-up mode.
104. Add indicators to chart bar for skewed and TMerc charts.
105 Correct logic bug regarding Show ENC Text toolbar button in quilt mode.
106. Add Waypoint Description edit control to Mark Properties dialog

Notes:

Lots of refactoring of BSB chart rendering in this Beta , brought on by performance issues in quilting.
Bugs are expected….but I think we take two steps forward, and only one step backwards for this update.

99. MSW source builders will need to add gsv.cpp and gsv.hpp to their project files to complete a local build.

102: This is a recent request from Ptizef and others. It is an attempt to “just do the right thing” on chart zooming in quilt mode. There are some tweak parameters in the code that may need touchup. Comments appreciated.

Cagney's gtk region crash: Debug code is embedded in this Beta . opencpn will exit cleanly with interesting log entries on a potential region fault. Feedback please…

===============


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beat Build 520 is ready.

http://southbaynetwork.com/opencpn/o..._210_setup.exe

Changelog:
107. Correct logic for quilt zooming in a location with no charts available.
108. Correct RouteManagerDialog route-delete logic.
109. Correct Track and Grib toolbar icon selected state graphics.
110. Correct Compass Rose and GPS status icon locations on startup and resize.
111. Implement Route Leg course/distance display on right click of route segment.
112. Correct fault on DeleteAllTracks if track is active
113. Improve formatting of RouteProperties dialog.
114. Correct some DeleteAllRoutes logic with RouteProp and RouteManager open together
115. Correct logic on highlighting of marks in RouteProp dialog
116. Display tweak: If the only chart available on the chart bar is cm93, then do not highlite on rollover.
117. Implement chart depth unit display in quilt mode, if possible (i.e. all charts in quilt are same units)
118. Limit (again) the maximum underzoom of cm93 charts to accomodate large wide screens.
119. Correct fault found with missing config and chart database on initial startup.
120. Added indication of poor georef solution to chart info box.
121. Correct faults caused by excessive overzoom on some cm93 cells.
122. In Course-Up mode, implement one-shot timer for low definition rotation rendering on mouse pans.
123. Implement “OVERZOOM” indicator in quilt mode.
124. Correct cm93 symbolization of 2 way deep water routes.
125. Disallow quilting mode for all TMerc charts.
126. On sectored lights, allow cursor pick for object query only near light location, not on light sector.
127. Correct fault in closing RouteProperties with route externally deleted.
128. Correct Windows hang with multiple RouteProperties dialogs accessed.
129. Improve chart selection logic on quilt pan.
130. Correct Routemanagerdialog→ZoomTo for excessive overzoom.
131. Correct logic error concerning repeated zero length tracks.

—Release Beta 520—

Notes:

125. Sigh…We just can't make TMerc quilting work without re-projection to a common meridian, I think.

Known problems:

1. Course-up in quilting mode. Screen clips oddly….
2. Course-up performance in general is not great. Needs work…
3. Euro IENC overlayed ENC cells. Still researching this one. Problem: There is no (clear to me) indication
in the ENC file that this file is to be treated as an overlay.
Of course, we can think of ALL ENC cells as overlays, and bring them onto the screen by a transparent masked BLIT operation. This is very slow, and would affect every S57 ENC, IENC overlay or not.. Probably not a good idea. I resist the idea of an “IENC Mode Switch”. Still thinking on this…..
4. New Icons. In process…..

===================

CVS updated for Build 523a

Changelog (partial)

132. Correct Depth unit indicator in quilt mode.
133. Correct for chart skew values of both polarities.
134. Update chart info window for S57 ENCs.
135. Implement NMEA GGA sentence.
136. New Icons, thanks Will.
137. Correct quilt logic in Course-Up mode.
138. Correct StackUp/StackDown tool logic for quilting.
139. Correct for “Meters and decimeters” display
140. Correct RouteManager “To” field contents update.

Notes:

Especially interested in quilting anomalies, like Ptizef post #531.
Also, any “Fail to start” conditions, faults of any kind…..

135. Windows source builders will need to add gga.cpp and gga.hpp to VS project file. Testing of GGA sentence in real life would be good.

Real Beta maybe tomorrow….


==================

5/27/2010

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta Build 527a is ready for download:

Note the new link:
http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:

132. Correct Depth unit indicator in quilt mode.
133. Correct for chart skew values of both polarities.
134. Update chart info window for S57 ENCs.
135. Implement NMEA GGA sentence.
136. New Icons, thanks Will.
137. Correct quilt logic in Course-Up mode.
138. Correct StackUp/StackDown tool logic for quilting.
139. Correct for “Meters and decimeters” display
140. Correct RouteManager “To” field contents update.
141. Final icons
142. Add “Start/End” tags to GPX route/track output files
143. Save “viz/inviz” tag on GPX Routes and Tracks
144. Switch back to low definition on Course-Up chart rotation.
145. Implement CourseUp/NorthUp toggle by clicking on compass rose icon.
146. Implement support for newest gpsd library functions in linux builds.

—Release Beta 527a—

CVS updated.

Notes:

144. We needed to switch back to low-res rotation model for performance reasons, especially for toolbar access. This is an opportunity for improvement…..
145. Standard north-up icon is blue in color. Derived from the red icon. Course-up mode or skewed charts show the previous red icon, rotated appropriately. Clicking on the icon itself toggles between Course-up and North-up (or natural-up for skewed charts.)
146. Linux users now have the most modern gpsd libary support. If the library is available, the config process will detect it and link appropriately. Please test if you can. I think we will have some version dependency problems to iron out.

cmake: linux users are encouraged to move away from automake/autoconf tools and toward cmake. Auto-tool scripts will not be maintained on CVS after this release, and will be removed in due course.

i18n: Final .pot and .po files are available on CVS server. Please email your updates to me directly, email address in the toolbox→authors tab. I'll integrate is I get them checked in. With the new cmake process, I plan to remove the .mo files from the CVS server, since they are a make product.

debian: linux users are encouraged to build and test the .deb package from the cmake scripts. $make package I plan for this .deb package to be the one uploaded to sourceforge for general download on this release. I suspect there may be dependency problems yet on this……

========================

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC 604 is ready for download and test.

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
147. Correct recognition and minimal handling of Polyconic charts.
148. Handle NMEA HDG message with no variation field.
149. Handle invalid data from libgps.
150. Handle old style GLL Sentences with 4 data fields.
151. Correct BSB rendering logic for auto-follow, quilted mode, in large scale.
152. Implement support for 9600 and 38400 baud GPS receivers. New ComboBox in Toolbox→GPS.
153. Correct ownship predictor rendering when ownship and predicted point are both offscreen.
154. Correct track logic to not add trackpoints in time mode if closer than .01 NM (~20 Metres)
156. Implement <alt-arrow> key viewport scrolling for 2 pixel resolution.
157. Add “LookAhead” mode for CourseUp displays when autofollowing.
158. On quilted S57 charts, Object Query info is now taken from largest scale chart at cursor..
159. Implement “GoTo Here” on right-click context menu.
160. Improve logic for selection of first destination RoutePoint on Route Activate.

—Release Beta 604—

CVS is updated.

Notes: This is a Release Candidate. Large bugs will of course be fixed. Small problems and feature additions may be deferred until the next maintenance release.

New .po files are requested from all translators. I think all messages are complete. .pot file available in CVS.

=========================

6/06/2010
OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC606a is ready for download

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

CVS updated.

Changelog:

161. Correct “LookAhead” logic.
162. Correct active/selected route draw logic
163. Correct NMEA RMC sentence magnetic variation parsing.
164. Correct some ENC SENC creation logic faults.
165. Correct for fault under windows after two exit icon clicks.
166. Correct BSB chart logic with DTM datum offsets.
167. Correct cm93 “Updated” value in chart info box.
168. Update “cursor” and “from ownship” fields in status bar periodically

—Release Beta 606—

Notes:

a. Very minor change in libgps support. This may still be a problem for some users.

Good Luck, and thanks again
Dave

=================


607a is ready for download

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog
169. Correct vector chart performance regression re:164
170. Correct georef for TMerc charts with DTM offsets

—Release Beta RC607a—

===================


Version 2.1.0 RC 611a is on CVS now.

Changelog:
171. Adjust dialogs for 800×600 screen size.
172. Improve Toolbox→Charts dialog, thanks to SethDart
173. Properly deselect routepoints after right click and no context action.
174. Set default trackpoint icon as “empty” on GPX Track Input
175. Correct COG averaging algorithm near North.
176. Add MOB button to Toolbar
177. Modify Windows UnInstaller to remove all configs, logs, SENCs, everything.
178. Partially correct for some poorly formed IENC charts.
—Release Beta RC611a—

Windows setup coming soon….Bandwidth limited here…

Notes:
178. Dutch IENCs do not crash, but some do not display well either. More work needed here, probably not happening for 2.1.0

Issues still open:

1. Garmin 126 Route upload. Requires “GRMN” bidirectional protocol? May not happen for 2.1.0

2. GPX I/O on ',' locales. Inconsistent results. Should be decimal ('.') only in GPX output, and GPX input should convert from decimal to proper locale. Please test if possible.


==================


RC611b is ready for download.


http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
179. Lock MOB waypoint
180. Add SethDart AIS target list.

—Release Beta RC611b—

CVS updated.

Notes:
1. GPX ',' and '.' problem resolved.

2. This is the last call for .po files. Really. Some uploaded .po files have had problems. Please check yours carefully. The latest French .po was corrupted, and could not be used….

3. Garmin GRMN protocol and Dutch IENC corrections are deferred until the next release.

I think this is the one!

Thanks for all your help and patience as we iron out these final knotty details.


=======================


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta RC613a is available


http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
181. Correct RouteManager Route Delete logic
182. Correct shared routepoint delete logic
183. Partially compensate for some IENC internal errors.
184. Re-allow quilting of Polyconic charts.
185. Implement sound alarm for Anchor Watch excursion.

—Release Beta RC613b—

CVS updated.

Notes:
184. After some testing, I re-enable polyconic quilting. It seems that for large scale polyconics charts, it works well enough to simply consider them to be Mercator-ish. The quilt auto-scale algorithm seems to prvent highly mismatched quilts. However, I left in the note about poor chart accuracy in the info box, just for good practice.

185. Thanks to Cagney for the patch. Please note that the sound emitted on Anchor Watch excursion/incursion is the same sound that is used for AIS alarms. We need a brand new dialog to select sounds, and better sound management entirely. But this will work for now.

Thanks, and good luck
Dave

====================


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC615a is ready.

Unfortunately, the opencpn.org site host is unable to accept uploads just now due to maintenance. I will try to get the Windows Setup binary uploaded as soon as the site allows.

CVS is updated.

Changelog:
186. Correct Single Chart Mode switch logic for chart type change.
187. Correct AIS COG line draw logic for case when target and CPA are both offscreen.
188. Tweak AIS Target list dialog
189. Include Nohal's latest S52 PLIB symbolization rule set.
190. Modify AnchorWatch to allow setting watch for any waypoint closer than 0.5NM from ownship.
191. Modify About→Help to access help_en_US.html , help_de_DE.html , etc. depending on system locale.
192. Change locale loading location, adjust Windows Setup Application to suit.
193. Allow Lookahead Mode in north-up orientation
194. Fix a couple of Route/Waypoint delete bugs.

Notes:
191. Using the new scheme documented elsewhere. The help_en_US.html included in the Beta is old, and comes from the 1.3.6 Wiki. It is just for testing. If any testers can hack up a localized html of any sort in order to test the search logic, that would be good. An example could be called help_fr_FR.html , etc….. and placed in the doc directory.

192. This is thanks to a tip from SethDart. Regularizes Windows and linux builds. Better…..

193. Big Duhhhh here. Why didn't I think of that?

I'm off to sea for 2 days….

Good Luck.
Dave

========================


OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 RC615a is ready.

Unfortunately, the opencpn.org site host is unable to accept uploads just now due to maintenance. I will try to get the Windows Setup binary uploaded as soon as the site allows.

CVS is updated.

Changelog:
186. Correct Single Chart Mode switch logic for chart type change.
187. Correct AIS COG line draw logic for case when target and CPA are both offscreen.
188. Tweak AIS Target list dialog
189. Include Nohal's latest S52 PLIB symbolization rule set.
190. Modify AnchorWatch to allow setting watch for any waypoint closer than 0.5NM from ownship.
191. Modify About→Help to access help_en_US.html , help_de_DE.html , etc. depending on system locale.
192. Change locale loading location, adjust Windows Setup Application to suit.
193. Allow Lookahead Mode in north-up orientation
194. Fix a couple of Route/Waypoint delete bugs.

Notes:
191. Using the new scheme documented elsewhere. The help_en_US.html included in the Beta is old, and comes from the 1.3.6 Wiki. It is just for testing. If any testers can hack up a localized html of any sort in order to test the search logic, that would be good. An example could be called help_fr_FR.html , etc….. and placed in the doc directory.

192. This is thanks to a tip from SethDart. Regularizes Windows and linux builds. Better…..

193. Big Duhhhh here. Why didn't I think of that?

I'm off to sea for 2 days….

Good Luck.
Dave

========================


RC611b is ready for download.


http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
179. Lock MOB waypoint
180. Add SethDart AIS target list.

—Release Beta RC611b—

CVS updated.

Notes:
1. GPX ',' and '.' problem resolved.

2. This is the last call for .po files. Really. Some uploaded .po files have had problems. Please check yours carefully. The latest French .po was corrupted, and could not be used….

3. Garmin GRMN protocol and Dutch IENC corrections are deferred until the next release.

I think this is the one!
=========================

OpenCPN Version 2.1.0 Beta Build 620 is available for download.

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

Changelog:
195. Save and restore AnchorWatch state on application shutdown and startup
196. Preclude potential div0 in AIS target CPA calculation.
197. Correct LookAhead coordinate logic for high latitude
198. Correct Route Render and Selection logic for common point routes.
199. Add install options to Windows installer.
200. Improve cm93 larger scale cell outline rendering logic
201. Completely remove Automake/Autoconf toolchain from CVS
202. Correct (some) Vector chart object query attribute units.

—Release Beta 620—


Notes:
1. I think (again) that this is a good release, except for embedded help file which has not been pulled yet. We'll see.

2. I have been mostly ignoring suggestions and patches this week that add functionality or change dialogs. Not even adding them to the TODO list. But I see some good ideas out there.

We'll start over on the patch integration after this version settles and releases. It is time…..

Thanks, and good luck

Dave

=================

6/23/2010
Opencpn Version 2.1.0 Build 623 is up.

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/opencpn_210_setup.exe

http://opencpn.org/downloads/beta/op...623-1_i386.deb


Changelog:
203. Improve cm93 quilting for sparsely covered areas.
204. Correct bug for BSB charts with UNKNOWN projection.
205. Correct display property updates after Toolbox→VectorChart changes.
206. Improve CrossTrackError (XTE) calculation.

—Release Beta 623—

Notes:
1. en_US help file included, as a snapshot of the Wiki. Incomplete, many errors and external links, but it is what it is….

2. I plan to update the version number and release this to sourceforge tomorrow (24 June) as the official Release.

3. I will accept last minute .po files until 1800 Z tomorrow.

4. Of course, if we find an immediate Dead On Arrival type of bug, all plans change…. Fingers crossed?

Thanks
Dave

=========================

==========================================
This one works for me.
Bdbcat + Beta Search
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/search.php?searchid=13952385

The search I had that works.
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/search.php?searchid=13951983&pp=25&page=20
This might get a bunch of them. - Any on bigdumboat website maybe?

Have done from 7/15/2009 - 6/23/2010


===========

7/15/2009 1.3.3 Beta
Well, we are back into the Beta testing business.
I have posted a copy of opencpn Version 1.3.3 Beta to the following url.
opencpnbeta
The following updates may be tested:
1 Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

==========

New Beta 1.3.3 Build 716 7/17/2009

1. Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

12. Improve AIS CPA Alert graphics
13. Make Wheel-Zoom-to-cursor option configurable in Toolbox→Etc
14. Correct AIS Class B decoding.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 716———

============

7/28/2009
Download 1.3.3 Build 728 (Windows)from:
opencpnbeta
CVS at sourceforge also updated.

Total Changelog:

1. Improve AIS Target Management
2. Support Windows COM Ports above COM9
3. Improve GPS and AIS shared port selection logic.
4. Correct Route Plan Speed limit.
5. Correct handling of named waypoint in route delete logic.
6. Correct radar range ring display.
7. Implement Route Export… Right click to Export, GPX-IN to import.
8. Corrected colour schemes on some BSB charts, allowing default RGB colours if present
9. Changed Mouse Wheel Zoom logic. Now zooms centered at cursor point.
10. Correct Route Properties to display times in Days/Hours/Minutes.
11. Highlight selected waypoint in Route Properties dialog.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 715———

12. Improve AIS CPA Alert graphics
13. Make Wheel-Zoom-to-cursor option configurable in Toolbox→Etc
14. Correct AIS Class B decoding.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 716———

15. Improve search for cm93 auxiliary dictionary files.
16. Improve Route and Waypoint graphics on GPX-In
17. Correct some CM93 chart detection algorithms.
18. Implement “Measure” Tool, experimental. Right-Click→“Measure…”
19. Change/simplify linux serial port detection logic.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 728———
Special requests:
1. Check out all those problematical CM93 spots.
2. Comments on Measure tool. I don't personally use this tool, so I need input.

CVS updated.
Comments:
1. Wheel zoom to cursor is now configurable in Toolbox→Etc. It should cause the cursor to jump to mid-screen, so that successive zoom-ins don't walk off the target. This works for Linux, but I can't seem to get it to work for XP under VirtualBox. Is this a VirtualBox bug? Please test.
2. Yet another debugging pass at the 8000 target AIS data stream…..

Sourceforge CVS is updated as well.

Comments:
I'm not sure if I like the “Wheel Zoom to cursor co-ordinates” feature.
Comments solicited…

===========
8/25/2009
Opencpn V1.3.3 Beta Build 825 is available.

Incremental changelog follows:

35. Correct problem with Route→Insert Waypoint…
36. Correct (yet again) pixel and Route calculations near Lon 0 and Lon 180
37. Handle segfault in GTK library code associated with CM93 region calculation,
38 Improve CM93 Chart outline rendering
39. Correct Current Index entries for US West Coast. Linux users need CVS update.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 825———

===========

8/25/2009
Opencpn V1.3.3 Beta Build 825 is available.

Incremental changelog follows:

35. Correct problem with Route→Insert Waypoint…
36. Correct (yet again) pixel and Route calculations near Lon 0 and Lon 180
37. Handle segfault in GTK library code associated with CM93 region calculation,
38 Improve CM93 Chart outline rendering
39. Correct Current Index entries for US West Coast. Linux users need CVS update.
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 825———

==============

8/30/2009
Beta Build 830 is available now.

Changelog:
40. Correct Route Draw logic for segment with both waypoints off-screen.
41. Implement AIS target mouse rollover
42. Eliminate rendering of CM93 A-scale outlines
43. Correct ToolTip text for Scale-In/Scale-Out
44. Improve AIS Alert suppression logic.
45. Correct Track Rt-Click fault.
46. Correct “Wheel-zoom-to-cursor” chart stack update.
47. Implement HDT, HDG, and HDM NMEA Messages, and show Ownship heading.
48. Correct for modern (> 2.23) versions of gpsd speed reporting
49 Correct Wheel-zoom-to-cursor logic causing cursor jump.
50. Correct memory leak in Track draw
51. Correct Vector chart preview logic
52. Improve Status Bar font selection
———-Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 830———

CVS current.

I hope for this to be the final Beta , and plan to release 1.3.4 this week.

========
9/19/2009
Final/final beta build 901 is now available

Changelog:
53. Correct Measure tool crash
54. Correct Object Query dialog, remove Cancel and Help buttons
55. Correct AIS Mouse crash
56. Implement Measure tool “On” by F4 keyboard shortcut, escape to cancel
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 901———

.================

9/11/2009
Build 911 of opencpn V 1.3.3 is available at the usual location

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
61. Improve NMEA message handler logic
62. Bypass rendering of WVS charts if scale is less than 5e-5 pix per meter (i.e. small scale, zoomed way out)
63. Implement new ownship icon, toolbox icons
64. Implement new arrow and pencil icons, Windows only
65. Correct Object Query initial scroll position
66. Correct Radar Range rings for skewed RNC's
67. Correct AIS logic for false alerts from targets reporting name before position, (rare, but statistically possible).
68. Implement scrolling Toolbox dialog for smaller screens.
69. Correct Routepoint property export/import.
70. Correct TrackDelete Logic while tracking is active.
71. Implement selectable fonts for AIS target query and Alert dialogs
72. Change (Improve?) Measure tool behavior
73. Correct DeleteAllRoutes logic with Tracking on.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 911———

CVS updated.

Comments:

63. Ship icon will be yellow if GPS data is unavailable, red if GPS is on and OK.

64: Sorry, new cursor art is unavailable on GTK (linux) platforms. wxWidgets only supports black and white cursors on GTK natively. May be possible with some more work. Low priority?

72. Changed Measure tool so that right click drop down menu for dismissal does not obscure the tool text, and stays with the pencil icon. No need to chase the cursor. Comments?

New news:
The Windows build was compiled with embedded debugging info, which should help us find the lingering crashes.
Here is how this works:

===============

9/18/2009
Opencpn v 1.3.3 Build 917 is available at the usual location.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
74. Correct Right-Click logic after DeleteAllRoutes
75. Correct Ship Draw logic for refresh box in Windows
76. Update Ownship icon shape/colors
77. Modify hotkeys for screen brightness and auto-follow toggles.
78. Modify ScaleIn/Out hotkeys to F7/F8
79. Correct Route→SendToGPS logic.
80. Implement CM93 chart zoom detail control slider.
81. Correct AIS Target Query dialog initial poition.
82. Re-enable GPSD input.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 917———

CVS updated

Notes:
77/78. Notice new hotkeys, described in ?→Help

80. This is new, and sorta cool. In Toolbox→VectorCharts, you will find a slider which sets the zoom detail for cm93 charts. This is in response for requests for more chart detail (larger scale cell) at any particular on-screen scale.

Positive values give more detail, but at a cost:
a. It simply takes longer to render larger scale charts covering more screen real estate.
b. There will be more instances of grey (NODATA) areas surrounding the larger scale charts as you zoom out. We don't quilt….
c. It can become dramatically slower if high detail is specified, and chart outlines are requested. In this case, we have to read a lot more cells to get their outlines.

Conversely, negative values give less detail. Zooms are faster.

Values may be user specified, so this stuff is under user control. I've been satisfied with the performance and detail at a level of +2.

=============

9/25/2009
opencpn V1.3.3 Build 925 is available at the usual location

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
83. Correct Tide/Current Right-Click crash
84. Correct crash on delete of last point of active route.
85. Correct Application/Frame Icon presentation
86. Improve nearby Routepoint calculation, now 8 pixels.
87. Implement cm93 zoom detail slidebar as floating dialog.
88. Correct DeleteAllRoutes logic for config file.
89. Correct Trackpoint XML time representation/decoding
90. Improve SENC creation progress dialog responsiveness.
91. Correct AIS target symbol heading for skewed charts.
92. Correct logic in SendToGPS for NMEA Data Source port.
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 925———

Notes:
85. Frame icons and Alt-Tab on MSW should show good icon. Please check.

87. Try this. Right-click on CM93 chart. Select “Enable c93 Detail Slider” Performance/speed comments requested. I use +2 usually, but -2 if I want to browse the world.


==============

9/29/2009
opencpn V1.3.3 Build 929 is available at the usual location.

Changelog:
93. Implement SEH/Signal fault handler for CM93 renderer.
94. Correct anchored ownship heading on skewed charts.
95. Correct/Remove some invalid Current Reporting Stations
96. Correct (some) loss of hotkeys when cm93 slider is shown.
97. Correct georeferencing for RNC's which span the Intl. Date Line
98. Update GPX output format to Version 1.1
———Publish Beta 1.3.3 Build 929———

This Beta is different in structure from previous versions.

It is a full Release, containing all the data files for tides/currents, ENC symbols, etc. It will, however, retain your current config settings and installed chart database.

=============

<alt2> Opencpn Version 1.3.4 was released on 30 September, 2009.

This is a maintenance release containing the following enhancements:

1. Ship's position tracking function, with GPX export and import. 2. Enhanced icons and screen graphics, for improved visibility. 3. Import and export of Routes using GPX interface protocol. 4. Implement CM93 vector chart detail control slider. 5. Assorted usability and reliability improvements.

See the Changelog for full details.

Opencpn Version 1.3.4 may be downloaded from the following link: https://sourceforge.net/projects/opencpn/

Thank you for your continued interest in opencpn.

Fair winds to all Dave and the opencpn development team </alt2>

================

11/18/2009
Version 1.3.5 Build 1118 is available now.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
24. Correct large memory leak when displaying GRIBs in MSW.
25. Correct crash on initial COM port error dialog in MSW.
—-Release Beta 1118—-

CVS updated and complete (I hope…)

==================

11/22/2009
opencpn Version 1.3.5 Beta Build 1122 is now available for download.

Changelog:
26. Correct RNC display spanning Longitude 0 (Greenwich)
27. Correct CM93 DISMAR (Distance mark) symbolization.
28. Correct error allowing two GRIB dialogs at one time, precluding consequent crash.
29. Correctly interpret /DTM on RNC chart header.
30. Correct RNC georef algorithms for REF points ⇐ 12
31. Correct small bug on RouteProperties page.
32. Improve GRIB Wind barb and iosbar drawing speed and efficiency.
33. Correct Unicode compile errors on vtg.cpp and gll.cpp.
34. Correct crash on GRIB directory change after showing valid GRIBs
35. On GRIB dialog open, pre-read at most 5 (five) most recent GRIB files to improve performance.
36. Allow GRIB files with no indicated file type extension, such as ““grb” or “bz2”.
37. Add Toolbar→GRIB checkbox option for Hi Definition graphics; Lo Definiton may be faster on some platforms…..
38. Increase (slightly) the fully zoomed out scale available for cm93 charts.
39. Correct GPX Track data structure and file format.
40. Add confirm message if GPX Export will overwrite an existing file.
41. In Toolbox→Etc, add option to “Preserve Scale” on chart switch.
—-Release Beta 1122—-

Notes:

37. Addresses some performance problems for dense GRIB files.
41. The overzoom discussion, and what to do when changing charts. Try this…

===================


12/10/2009
OpenCPN Version 1.3.5 Beta Build 1210 is available now.

opencpnbeta

Changelog:
42. Implement Track Number scheme.
43. Correct minor ownship drawing errors near screen edge.
44. Correct trans-Pacific GRIB wind barb drawing
45. Correctly interpret GLL and VTG sentences which have NULL fields or invalid data.
46. Correct GRIB file sort logic
47. Correct crash on close Waypoint Properties dialog after deleting the displayed point.
48. Ditto for Routes and Tracks
49. Add ForceUpdate button to Toolbox→Charts.
50. Disable ToolBar on chart database update cycle.
51. On overzoomed CM93 charts, when ShowChartOutlines is OFF, show available larger scale chart outlines with dashed line.
52. Correct position and vertical scaling of Tide/Current window
53. Correct default size of GRIB Dialog
54. Make GRIB Dialog tracking text controls READ_ONLY.
54. Make Options→Charts selected directory text control READ_ONLY.
55. Prepare for International message support using gnu gettext method…More to come…
56. Implement NOAA WW3 Significant Wave Height/Wave Direction GRIB display.
57. Convert RouteProperties Distance calculations to traditional Mercator Sailing algorithm.
58. Add NMEA Data Monitor window.
59. Rebuild Toolbox with new tabs to provide more headroom…
60. Preserve Track On/Off state in config file.
61. Add defaults for track parameters to config file
62. Convert MSW builds to use dll C runtime libraries vs. static linked C-RTL.
—-Release Beta 1210—-

Notes:
49. Adding/deleting/changing of chart files will be detected automatically whenever you visit Toolbox→Charts, and the chart database will be updated as necessary. The “Force” button may go away as we gain more confidence in the auto-update methodology.
55. I will have more to say on this later. Sharpen up your translation skills….
56. New NOAA WW3 GRIB data type. Comments on UI welcome. Lots more GRIB data types in the world to decode, one by one….
59. Sorry, doc writers…. We needed a re-structuring here to allow space for more user options later.
62. In general, it is probably better policy to use a dll runtime model instead of a statically linked model.
Hopefully, MSW users will not notice any difference in installation or run-time behavior. This is a test….

This Beta version does not appear to incorporate a lot of user visible changes.
However, there are a number of internal structural changes which will make life easier for the developers moving forward. In particular, the chart database structure has been revamped for better modularity and performance. As a result, I would not be surprised if there are some regression problems in this version, i.e. some things that used to work are no longer working.
Please keep this in mind as you test.

And, we welcome a new Developer/Coder to the project. Much of the restructuring of the database code comes to us courtesy of
Mark Sikes (Psyches). Good stuff here, and more to come.

Thanks Mark, and welcome aboard.
=================
12/16/2009
Here is Version 1.3.5 Beta 1216.

Changelog:

63. Correct GRIB SIGHW tracking logic causing fault.
64. Implement transparency for some GRIB overlays.
65. Correct Database update logic for currently open or cached charts.
66. Improve HiDef GRIB Isobar rendering with splines.
67. Improve Mercator distance/direction algorithms.
68 Improve performance of chart database update cycle.
69. Correct UWRTOC symbolization rules
70. Correct cm93 crash above Latitude 80N/S
—-Release Beta 1216—-

Notes. Changes are minor and localized, with minimal regression risk. Famous last words….

We are ready to try some internationalization of embedded text strings.
Please see the new i18n thread on the forum for information.

We are coming down to the wire on test time for 1.3.6 Release candidate.
I plan to be substantially offline for a 3 month cruise starting in early Jan, 2010.

=================
12/22/2009

Here is opencpn Version 1.3.6 RTM

Changelog:
87. Change symbol for “UWTROC always dry” to same as “LNDARE as point feature”.
88. Correct database logic preventing multiple duplicate chart additions.
89. Correct keyboard control logic for manipulation of cm93 detail slider.
90. Correct GPX output format using xmlnspencpn extensions.
91. Arrange to start opencpn with last displayed chart, scale, and zoom.
92. Update Help file
—-Release 1.3.6—-

New Link
http://www.southbaynetwork.com/openc..._136_setup.exe

CVS updated.

Notes:
Changes are small and localized, except….
90. Unavoidably large internal rework of GPX code to support maintenance and to ensure valid GPX I/O format. GPX users please test as fully as possible.

I have switched back to original Windows install .exe method. Reason: Vista will not install the 1.3.6 MSI version unless any current version of opencpn is removed first. Unfortunately, the 1.3.4 un-installer also removes and deletes the user data files, including config, SENCs, and all routes/tracks/waypoints. Not good. This fault has been corrected in the 1.3.6 un-installer, so we are free to move to the MSI method on the next production release if we desire.